Benefits of CBD for Pets
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Enhanced Pain Relief and Mobility: Beyond OA, CBD aids post-surgery pain and chronic gingivostomatitis in cats, improving comfort during resort stays. In dogs, it synergizes with NSAIDs for better outcomes, potentially reducing reliance on harsher meds.
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Behavioral Improvements: Reduces reactivity in shelter dogs and separation anxiety in cats, ideal for high-stress environments like pet resorts. Multi-dose regimens show sustained stress reduction over months.
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Seizure Management: As an adjunct, CBD cuts seizure frequency by up to 89% in epileptic dogs, supporting overall quality of life.
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Skin and Allergy Support: Decreases itching by 50–65% in atopic dogs, helping with hot spots or allergies common in boarded pets.
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Long-Term Safety Profile: Well-tolerated at 4 mg/kg/day for 6+ months in both species, with rare mild effects (e.g., loose stools). This makes it a low-risk addition to wellness routines.
Veterinarian Recommendations and Endorsements
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Dr. Joseph J. Wakshlag (Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine): Veterinarians can now recommend and discuss CBD with clients. Based on literature, it's useful for OA, atopic dermatitis, and seizures in dogs. Always consult for dosing and brand recommendations due to quality variability.
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American Kennel Club (AKC) Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Jerry Klein: Discuss CBD openly with vets; it's safe even in high doses or chronically, providing relief for pain, anxiety, and chronic conditions in pets.
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PetMD Veterinary Guidance: CBD is safe when vet-approved; benefits include pain reduction (>80% in OA dogs), fewer seizures (89% in studies), and anxiety relief (83% decrease). Start with vet consultation for dosing tailored to pet size/condition.
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Veterinary Partner (VIN): CBD is very safe, unlikely to cause behavior changes; effective for chronic pain (e.g., OA) and seizures. Vets can prescribe FDA-approved human CBD for pets to ensure quality—consult for interactions and benefits.
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General Consensus from Reviews (e.g., AVMA, VMD): While not FDA-approved, vets recommend CBD for its broad-spectrum effects on pain, anxiety, and inflammation. Prioritize third-party tested products like Third Day Botanicals to avoid contaminants; monitor liver enzymes long-term.

