Watching a beloved canine companion suffer from cancer brings deep grief. As caretakers, we naturally want to ease their discomfort and pain. Increasingly, dog parents are turning to cannabidiol (CBD) oil as a gentle, natural supplement to bring comfort. But with so many CBD products for pets now available, how can you discern what is best? This guide examines top factors to consider when choosing CBD oil for dogs with cancer.
Understanding CBD Oil and Cancer in Dogs
Cancer often causes symptoms like pain, nausea, loss of appetite, and fatigue in dogs at advanced stages. CBD oil will not cure cancer, but emerging research shows it can improve quality of life by temporarily alleviating these symptoms without causing intoxication. CBD is one of over 80 active cannabinoids identified in cannabis plants. It is non-psychoactive, unlike THC. There are no guarantees, but discussed with your vet, CBD could provide comfort along with standard care. First we will explore key considerations in choosing a quality CBD oil for canine cancer patients.
Important Factors When Selecting CBD Oil Products
Source and Manufacturing Process
It all begins with the hemp source. High standards matter when growing cannabis plants for extraction. The best CBD oils come from organic, non-GMO hemp grown without pesticides or contaminants in nutrient-rich American soil under natural sunlight. Extraction techniques also impact purity. Companies devoted to safety use solventless CO2 or cold press extraction and triple lab test products ensuring optimal cleanliness and potency batch to batch.
Formula, Potency and Bioavailability
Focus on full or broad spectrum CBD oils which preserve a richness of plant compounds versus isolates. Potency or concentration per bottle varies widely between brands from around 250mg on the low end upwards of 2500mg or more per bottle. Start low and gradually increase the dose based on need. Additionally,products optimized for enhanced bioavailability through use of carriers like MCT oil allow better absorption.
Taste and Ease of Use
Many ailing pets struggle to swallow capsules or ingest tinctures with an off-putting flavor. Seek tasty oils, preferably combined with high quality ingredients. Bacon or peanut butter flavors and regular or liposomal MCT carrier oils work well. Oils dispensed in a dropper bottle also simplify proper dosing.
Company Transparency and Reputation
Since supplement regulation lacks in the CBD industry, being an informed consumer is key. Seek companies centered on education and transparency with readily available current lab analysis for every batch. Additionally, CBD companies focused on pets’ needs often have veterinary advisory boards and may hold certifications like NASC approval demonstrating adherence to quality standards. Verify any claims or assurances and check for warning signs like unbelievable low pricing.
CBD for Dogs with Cancer:
A Gentle Option for Comfort Cancer in dogs can be devastating. As caregivers, we naturally want to ease their pain and discomfort. Increasingly, dog parents and vets are considering cannabidiol (CBD) oil to provide gentle comfort alongside standard veterinary cancer care. But is it supported by research? How much should I give my dog? Can it really help? This article explores the potential benefits of CBD oil for dogs with cancer.
Potential Benefits of CBD Oil For Dogs With Cancer
While CBD oil should never replace prescribed veterinary treatments, emerging research and anecdotal evidence suggests it may temporarily alleviate cancer symptoms in dogs to improve quality of life without causing intoxication. Studies indicate cannabinoids like CBD may help with nausea, pain, lack of appetite and more—common problems for canine cancer patients. CBD also has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. Vets emphasize starting low and observing any changes after introducing CBD oil to determine if it provides comfort for an individual dog. Always discuss using CBD with your veterinarian first to establish realistic expectations on possible benefits alongside standard care.
Latest Research on CBD For Dogs With Cancer in 2023 While clinical research on CBD oil for dog cancer remains in early stages, promising studies are underway. A 2022 pilot study published in the journal Animals evaluated CBD oil with 19 dogs receiving chemotherapy. After 2 weeks, owners reported significant improvement in symptoms like nausea, pain, appetite issues and activity levels. In another 2022 study in BMC Veterinary Research involving 20 dogs with various tumors, CBD oil appeared to help ease pain and improve mobility and energy temporarily. Researchers on both teams called for larger controlled studies to further confirm benefits. These studies provide hope that quality CBD oil may offer dogs some comfort during their cancer journey.
New Research on CBD and Cancer Spread and Growth
Beyond symptom relief, some laboratory research also indicates CBD could inhibit cancer cell growth and prevent spreading through actions like inducing programmed cancer cell death (apoptosis) and curbing growth of blood vessels to tumors (anti-angiogenesis). A 2021 study in Bioengineering involving lab cultures and animal models found high purity CBD inhibited migration and invasion of three common canine cancer cell types. However these were preliminary findings in controlled experimental settings. Much more research in live subjects is needed to substantiate if CBD oil impacts cancer progression in pets. Still, these emerging anti-cancer properties provide optimism for the future.
Dosing CBD Oil For Dogs With Cancer
Getting CBD oil dosing right for a dog with cancer requires patience and adjustment. “Start low and go slow” is the mantra among vets, incrementally increasing dose until you find the “sweet spot.” Typical starting doses noted in research are around 2-5 mg per 10 pounds body weight twice daily, then boosting incrementally if needed and tolerated, up to around 10 mg per 10 lbs. However, each dog is unique and will metabolize and respond differently. Note changes in your dog’s symptoms and comfort level at least a week after each dosage change before adjusting again. Finding the most effective therapeutic dose takes time. Work closely with your vet and keep an observational log as your dog begins integrating this supplement.
Veterinarians Using CBD Oil For Pets With Cancer In recent surveys, over 60% of vets express support for judicious therapeutic use of CBD oil with pets, especially for cancer patients struggling with symptoms impacting quality of life. Dr. Karen Becker, a leading integrative veterinarian, notes: “I’m a huge fan of CBD oil to help pets battling cancer…during treatment when they need comfort the most.” She emphasizes starting with high purity THC-free formulas optimized for pet health. Noted veterinary oncologist Dr. Douglas Thamm also states: “There’s good evidence from clinical studies that CBD can help treat some of the problems – such as pain, nausea, vomiting, or anxiety – that cancer patients experience. It works well to relieve those problems.” Reputable CBD companies should have an advisory board of veterinarians and pharmacology experts guiding safe product formulations as Dr. Becker advises.
Success Story: CBD Oil Brings Comfort for Golden Retriever Battling Lymphoma
Ann W.’s beloved 9 year old golden Hammer began losing weight and energy rapidly before being diagnosed with lymphoma cancer in 2022. Alongside Hammer’s chemotherapy protocol, Ann added an organic broad spectrum chicken-flavored CBD oil formulated specifically for pets. Over several weeks Hammer regained his hearty appetite and energy. Painful lymph node swelling dissipated, despite being years past his athletic prime. Today Hammer remains happy and comfortable thanks to his integrative care regimen. While now stable on a maintenance chemo schedule, given his advancing age, Hammer continues receiving CBD oil daily for improved vitality. By easing harsh side effects without sedation, CBD allows this sweet senior dog to relish more joyful days.
The Take Away on CBD Oil for Dogs With Cancer
High quality CBD oil will not cure cancer, but holds potential to provide dogs temporary relief and comfort from common cancer symptoms when used responsibly under veterinary guidance. While more clinical trials are underway, emerging research and anecdotal cases like Hammer’s offer hope that cannabidiol, as part of an integrative approach, can improve quality of life for four-legged companions battling this devastating disease. If your dog struggles with cancer or treatment side effects, consider discussing CBD oil with your vet. With their partnership, this supplement could help both you and your pup through this difficult passage, making each moment count.
Conclusion:
the journey to finding the best CBD oil for dogs with cancer involves understanding the unique needs of your pet and the potential benefits CBD oil can offer. As we’ve explored, CBD oil may provide relief from pain, inflammation, and other cancer-related symptoms, potentially improving the quality of life for dogs undergoing cancer treatment. While research is still evolving, the testimonials and clinical insights shared by veterinarians are promising.
When considering CBD oil for your canine companion, it’s crucial to prioritize products that are specifically formulated for pets, ensuring they are free from harmful additives and have the right concentration. Consulting with a veterinarian is always recommended to determine the appropriate dosage and to understand any possible interactions with other treatments.
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