Learning that your dog has an autoimmune disease can be overwhelming as a pet owner.
When your pet first gets this diagnosis, there are many different types of prescriptions and antibiotics that a veterinarian may prescribe to help manage the pain depending on the condition.
They even may consider supplements, acupuncture, or hydrotherapy.
Well, how about CBD to help with your dog’s symptoms from their autoimmune disease?
CBD is short for cannabidiol, a natural chemical compound found in the cannabis plant and famous for its health uses.
The CBD market for pets has exploded in the last few years, and many owners are beginning to try these products to help their pets that suffer from autoimmune diseases.
Let’s take a closer look at autoimmune diseases in dogs and why many turn to CBD as a natural treatment for their furry friends.
What are the common autoimmune diseases in canines?
Autoimmune diseases make up a broad category that covers any disorders in dogs that affect their immune system.
These diseases can have a chain reaction that affects the body in several ways, whether it’s the skin, the nervous system, the endocrine system, or even the digestive system.
For canines, there are several different autoimmune diseases that they may experience.
Here are some common autoimmune diseases in dogs:
- Autoimmune Thyroiditis
- Lupus
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
- Bullous Pemphigoid
- Pemphigus complex
How can dogs get an autoimmune disease?
The reasons why a dog may get autoimmune diseases are not crystal clear. However, several reasons have been speculated.
The first reason is genetics and the conclusion that particular breeds are more likely to develop particular conditions.
For example, a study looking into the presence of canine Autoimmune Thyroiditis discovered that certain breeds such as:
- Golden Retriever
- Shetland Sheepdog
- American Cocker Spaniel
- Boxer
- English Setter
- Doberman Pinscher
- Akita
- Irish Setter
- Old English Sheepdog
- German Shepherd
- Collie
All of the breeds above have a higher prevalence of struggling with this condition.
Other reasons that are speculated include environmental pollutants and certain drugs.
Finally, another suspected cause of autoimmune diseases in dogs includes Ultraviolet (UV) exposure.
What are the symptoms of autoimmune disease in dogs?
You know your dog and may pick up right away if they are feeling under the weather.
Here are some symptoms that may suggest a potential autoimmune condition:
- Fever
- Ulcers
- Anemia
- Weakness
- Weight loss
- Excessive bleeding
- Increased urination
- Increased thirst
- Lameness/Difficulty in mobility
If you see one or more of these symptoms recurrently in your dog, be sure to call the veterinarian and discuss if they think your dog should come in and be tested.
Will CBD help with my dog’s autoimmune disease?
It’s important to remember that as these are autoimmune diseases, there is often not necessarily a “cure” and treatment is really to help the dog to live as comfortably as possible and alleviate and manage symptoms of pain or discomfort. With that said, in a recent study on CBD in healing autoimmune diseases it was stated:
“There has been some preclinical investigation focusing on the role of particular cannabinoids in AI disease models. Cannabidiol slows down T-cell production and suppresses immune system memory, meaning that CBD could cut down on the likelihood of future autoimmune attacks. CBD has also been found to increase the expression of genes that deal with oxidative stress, which may reduce cell damage from autoimmune attacks.”
As more and more owners turn to CBD products to help manage their pet’s pain, research continues to be developed to take a closer look at the effects and correlation of CBD and autoimmune diseases.
One of the most common uses for CBD for both humans and dogs is to help manage inflammation.
Inflammation is a defense mechanism from the immune system. Anything from joint pain to swelling can be an example of inflammation, and anti-inflammatory products help to alleviate symptoms and in turn help the condition.
Cannabidiol has been proven to be an anti-inflammatory compound.
A study looking at cannabinoids concluded that “Cannabinoids have been tested in several experimental models of autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, colitis and hepatitis and have been shown to protect the host from the pathogenesis through induction of multiple anti-inflammatory pathways.”
What CBD products are best for my dog?
If your dog struggles with autoimmune diseases or has symptoms that you think CBD could help with, then it may be time to consider working this into your dog’s daily routine.
Now what?
First and foremost, it is important to consult with your pet’s veterinarian so they are aware of this treatment.
The next step is to consider the type of product that may be best for your dog, depending on their condition.
CBD products that are available for dogs include CBD oil, treats, infused peanut butter, and infused coconut oil.
While the coconut oil may be best as a topical for a particular rash or inflamed area, daily treatment may be better if your dog needs to simply boost their immune system.
Once a product is decided, you’ll need to pick the perfect brand and identify the appropriate dosage depending on your pet’s condition and size.
Honest Paws
One of the most popular product lines that focuses on boosting a dog’s immune system is the Wellness line from Honest Paws.
Honest Paws Reviews have it ranked as the #1 organic, full-spectrum Hemp + CBD for Pets brand in America.
The Honest Paws Wellness product line is focused on helping the immune system and all of the products from this line have a recommended dosage that is dependent on the size of the dog.
Honest Paws Wellness hemp oil has three sizes depending on weight. The CBD treats have recommended dosage based on the size, as does the peanut butter and coconut oil.
Starting on your pet’s CBD journey can be overwhelming, and it is important to consult with the veterinarian and be transparent in your pet’s treatment.
Additionally, always be sure to do research and ask questions about the products that you purchase ensuring that they are safe and the right fit.
Does your dog struggle with an autoimmune disease? Has CBD helped? Share with us in the comments below.
Autoimmune Diseases in Pets
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