About Cannabidiol Dog Treats
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are the key cannabinoids contained in cannabis.
What is the Endocannabinoid System?
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is a biological signaling system consisting of endocannabinoids (a neurotransmitter), cannabinoid receptors (CBRs), and enzymes. The ECS is expressed in the central and peripheral nervous systems of the vertebrate.
How Does ECS Works?
The biological effects of the ECS are through the interaction of endocannabinoids with the receptors and the enzymes as explained below
Endocannabinoids
Endocannabinoids which means endogenous cannabinoids are lipid-based neurotransmitters that serve as chemical signals between nerve cells.
The two main endocannabinoids identified are
- Anandamide (AEA)
- 2-archidonoyl glycerol (2-AG)
Endocannabinoid Receptors
Endocannabinoid receptors are the binding site for the endocannabinoids through which a message is sent to the ECS to kick-start a response. The location of the receptor determines the response observed from the binding.
The two major cannabinoids expressed throughout the body are
- CB1 is in the central nervous system.
- CB2 is in the peripheral nervous system and the immune cells
Enzymes
Enzymes are the component of ECS that break down the endocannabinoids after producing the response to prevent its continuous action
The two main enzymes are:
- Fatty acid amide hydrolase which breaks down AEA
- Monoacylglycerol acid lipase which breaks downs 2-AG
The Major Cannabinoids in Cannabis
Cannabis has two main cannabinoids namely: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Cannabidiol (CBD).
- Tetrahydrocannabinol binds with both CB1 and CB2 receptors similarly to endocannabinoids. It is a psychoactive substance that causes both positive (reduce pain, stimulate appetite) and negative affect (paranoia, anxiety).
- Cannabidiol doesn't interact with either CB1 or CB2. Experts believe it prevents the breaking down of endocannabinoids. CBD is devoid of any negative effects and is responsible for effects like reducing pain, nausea, appetite stimulation, etc.
What Are The Functions of Cannabinoids?
How the ECS performs its overall function is not fully understood yet but experts explain that its major role is homeostasis. It plays an active role in regulating physiological and cognitive processes.
Some of the functions of cannabinoids are:
- Appetite and digestion
- Metabolism
- Chronic pain
- Inflammation and immune system responses
- Mood
- Learning and memory
- Motor control
- Sleep
- Fertility
- Memory enhancement
- Cardiovascular system function
- Muscle formation
- Bone remodeling and growth
In contrast to human studies, there are very few trustworthy studies on dogs. However, a study that evaluated the safety, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic benefits of cannabidiol oil in dogs with osteoarthritis using a dose range of 2 mg to 8 mg per kilogram of body weight observed eighty percent of the dogs showed improvement.
According to another study, epileptic dogs who received CBD in addition to their seizure medicine saw much fewer seizures than those who received seizure medication and placebo.
Studies like the ones mentioned above suggest that CBD may have advantages for dogs; further research is required to prove all of its benefits.
What is the Stance of the Veterinarians on CBD use in Dogs?
According to asurvey of 2,131 participants by VIN News Services, 63 percent of veterinarians said they get inquiries regarding CBD oil for pets at least once a month. But due to the possibility of fines and license suspension in some areas or states, veterinarians aren't always willing to talk about it. But fortunately, California recently passed a law that prohibits state authorities from punishing veterinarians for discussing cannabis use with clients, including potential side effects and toxicities, concerning their pets.
Before selecting any products, conduct adequate research and ask your veterinarian about any potential effects or toxicities on your pet.