According to a recent case study, cannabis appears to be an “alternative” treatment for dogs with a common skin condition–especially if the dog experiences adverse side effects when using conventional steroid therapy.
Researchers from the Federal University of Santa Catarina in Brazil have published their findings in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, this month. They describe the efficacy of CBD oil with full spectrum on a dog suffering from the autoimmune disorder discoid lupus erythematosus.
Typically, corticosteroids, as well as other medications, are used to treat the condition. These can be harmful to a dog’s health. This is what happened to the canine of two years old at the heart of the case study.
A veterinarian prescribed an oil that contained a 2:1 ratio of THC to CBD. It was taken orally, initially one drop a day for three consecutive days, and then gradually increased “until a dose optimal for the control of symptoms was determined.”
The study states that “within a few week, the dog showed significant improvement in skin signs, along with a simultaneous improvement in liver functions.” “It is interesting to note that the owner reported a change in the dog’s behaviour shortly after stopping prednisolone, and on the first day following the intake of cannabis oil.”
Discussion section: “Cannabis derivatives are emerging, beyond their pain relief prowess, as potential knights-in-shining armor against inflammation, and immune system overload in the veterinary industry,” it says. These compounds work with the body’s endocannabinoid (ECS) system, which is a master conductor for cellular harmony, homeostasis, and various functions.
The researchers said that corticosteroids are “limited” in their use to a short period of time. Cannabis products, on the other hand, “lack significant adverse effects and are safe to use for long periods of time.”
They said that “during the course of the treatment, the dog displayed a robust general well-being. It was active and playful and its dermatological symptoms stabilized.” “No corticoids was needed during [Individualized Cannabinoid Therapy].
The case study concluded that “this offers initial indications” that cannabinoids may be a health-conscious and viable alternative to extended therapeutic methods for DLE in dog. However, it noted that further research was needed to determine optimal dosage and to assess long-term effectiveness.
Researchers said that “the song of cannabis therapy in DLE dogs is incredibly promising, but we need to continue listening, gather more evidence and refine the tune.” This case report is a verse in the chorus of research, and could pave the way for further research. It may also offer a new rhythm and hope for dogs who are battling DLE.
Another study published last month showed that dogs who receive daily CBD doses see “significant reductions in stress and anxiety associated with car travel.”
Another study has shown that CBD can be beneficial to dogs. For example, showed a reduced incidence of seizures in dogs receiving the cannabinoid. A study from 2018 showed that dogs suffering from arthritis saw improvements after receiving CBD treatment.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture found in August that cattle that are fed hempseed cakes retain very low levels of THC and CBD. This means that meat from these cows is safe to consume.
A 2022 federally-funded study found that giving cows hemp reduced their stress. Researchers have also studied and how CBD effects pain and stress in horses.
In 2022, the Food and Drug Administration warned a number of companies that were marketing CBD products to animals. They said that “there is a lack of data about what levels of residues can be safely consumed by humans who consume foods from animals that have been treated with CBD.”
The governor of New York, in late 2012, vetoed two bills that would have permitted hemp seeds to be added to animal feed for horses, pets and camelids , such as llamas, alpacas, and camelids . She cited a lack information about safety, and demanded the state study the issue in a “rapid manner”.
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