The use of medical marijuana is rapidly growing. We've heard of children who've received medical cannabis to treat various ailments, such as pain and inflammation, irritability, anxiety, etc. For many of us, pets are our children. We love and cherish them and would do anything to restore their joy when they feel troubled or ill. As cannabis' medicinal significance becomes extensively accepted, some pet owners and veterinarians have turned to it as a potential medicine for pets. 

What Ailments Does Cannabis Treat?

The primary reason cannabis is used to treat the same medical issues is that we (humans and animals) have endocannabinoid systems. 

This is a complex system in our bodies with cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2), whose balance creates harmony in our internal processes – the body operates smoothly and efficiently. On the other hand, an imbalanced endocannabinoid system leaves the body compromised. By binding with cannabinoid receptors, cannabinoids enhance the endocannabinoid system's ability to maintain balance, thus bringing equilibrium to various body processes, including mood, appetite, motor function, etc.

From the above information, it's logical to say that cannabis treats similar maladies in humans and animals. In pets, cannabis is explored to treat a range of health issues, including:

• Cancer pain
• Arthritis
• Seizures
• Anxiety
• Allergic reactions
• Appetite loss
• Inflammation 

Cannabis is also believed to enhance the quality of life of animals with terminal illnesses

Cannabis' Safety and Efficacy in Pets

The FDA is the federal agency that approves any form of medical, pharmaceutical, or cosmetic products for which therapeutic claims are made. The FDA approval process demonstrates the efficacy and safety of legally manufactured and marketed products. The guarantee of a product's safety is critical to animal lovers who want to use cannabis to treat their pets. 

Until now, no cannabis-based product suggested to have therapeutic benefits to animals has undergone the traditional FDA approval process. While robust evidence shows that some cannabinoids, like CBD, have the therapeutic potential to treat conditions, there's still little research on their administration in animals. Much of what we know is still anecdotal or deduced from human and animal studies. 

The Best Weed Strains for Pets

As you might have noted, pet-friendly weed strains are the ones with a higher concentration of CBD than THC. Your dog doesn't need a high-potency weed strain like Laughing Buddha or Silver Haze. Some dispensaries and manufacturers make animal-friendly products. But if you want to make CBD-rich cannabis edibles on your own, here are the best strains for pets:

Cannatonic

For many people, the idea of a weed strain with a 1:1 ratio of CBD to THC might sound hilarious, but this pooch-friendly Cannatonic strain does. Created by Resin Seeds, Cannatonic boasts a 50/50 hybrid strain with THC levels below 6% and CBD content of 6%-17%. A powerful relaxing stain, the Cannatonic produces an uplifting effect that focuses on the mind. 

It's great for your furry friend who needs pain relief in the morning or afternoon. Cannatonic is also believed to have therapeutic properties designed to alleviate anxiety, stress, nausea, and moodiness (so it's also perfect for your feline).

ACDC

Another pet-friendly cannabis strain is ACDC, thanks to its extremely low THC level and incredible CBD content. It contains only 1%-6% THC, so you can't expect your Fido to shake all night long. On the other hand, CBD levels fall around 20%, which is a surprisingly higher level than the average 0.05%.

ACDC is a cross between Cannatonic and Ruderalis, a 50/50 sativa/indica hybrid. Perked with terpenes, this weed strain exudes a sweet, earthy, and skunky flavor. In pets, ACDC may treat various medical problems, including pain and discomfort. And because of its balanced indica-sativa content, this strain may produce an uplifting effect combined with peace and happiness. 

Sour Tsunami

Sour Tsunami is another well-balanced pet-friendly strain comprising 60% sativa and 40% indica, although it's more sativa-leaning. A crossbreed between Sour Diesel, NYC Diesel, and California's Ferrari strain, Sour Tsunami boasts THC levels of up to 10% and CBD levels as high as 11-13%. In fact, some Tsunami concentrates are known to contain as high as 30% CBD.

First, you must gauge your dog's tolerance to Sour Tsunami using minor doses due to the extremely high CBD content. However, if well administered, this weed strain may alleviate pain without making your pooch high and incapacitated on the couch. Furthermore, it may treat several medical conditions, such as stress, cancer, and insomnia. 

Harlequin

Harlequin is a sativa-dominant, CBD-rich strain that has grown in demand as a non-psychoactive medical strain. It combines various strains, such as Colombian Gold, Swiss Sativa, Thai, and a Nepali indica. Created by Mr. Green of the House of David Collective, Harlequin has a 5:2 CBD to THC ratio, although lab analytics show that its THC level ranges from 4-10% while the CBD content varies from 6-15%.

It's the perfect strain for a sweet-toothed pooch as its high terpene profile gives it a woody, earthy scent with a tinge of mango flavor. This strain has the potential to uplift the mood, alleviate stress, deliver an anti-inflammatory effect, and relieve pain. 

How Much Cannabis to Give Your Pet

A 2018 study on dogs with osteoarthritis showed that the most effective dose for enhancing your pet's comfort and activity levels is 2 mg/kg of weight. However, that shouldn't be a rule of thumb because the study might have been biased, and also other data on CBD dosage is quite limited. 

Every dog has a different need, and they'll respond differently to cannabis. That's why it's crucial to start with low doses. Monitor how your furry friend responds to the dose and adjust it accordingly. Most CBD products may come with dosing suggestions but bear in mind that these are based on the manufacturers' recommendations. It's challenging to tell how much is safe and effective because CBD isn't regulated. 

At Vessel Brand, we are dedicated to making your cannabis experiences memorable by providing valuable insights into "everything" marijuana to ensure you make an informed decision to meet your lifestyle goals. Visit us online to gather more information on cannabis across various topics. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the commonly reported symptoms in pets after CBD ingestion?

After ingesting CBD, your dog may experience the following symptoms: vomiting, inappetence, lethargy, and diarrhea. S/he may also suffer from Ataxia with large ingestions.  

Do vets recommend CBD for dogs?

If your pet is under any medication, talk to your vet before using CBD to be safe. Most holistic and integrative vets are familiar with the interactions between other drugs and CBD, as well as the benefits of the latter. However, remember that your vet can talk to you about CBD, but they can't initiate a conversation about CBD (except in California).

Does CBD make dogs high?

The hemp plant from which pet CBD is derived contains high CBD levels and almost no THC, thus doesn't cause psychoactive effects. THC can be toxic to animals, but CBD is safe. Besides, hemp-derived CBD is legal in the US.