Seizures can be frightening, disruptive, and difficult to witness — and even more so to treat. If one of your loved ones is experiencing seizures, especially your dog, you may not know what treatment modality is best. Beyond traditional medicine, there is promising research on CBD for dogs with seizures. Read on to find out more.
What does the research say?
According to a study completed by Colorado State University, 89% of the dogs who received CBD experienced a reduction in the frequency of their seizures. The head of the study, Dr. Stephanie McGrath, a neurologist at Colorado’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital, said there was a strong correlation between seizure reduction and the amount of CBD in a dog’s blood. With this insight, the study continued. McGrath describes the research as “exciting” and “important,” and that CBD for dogs with seizures has real potential to serve as a lasting alternative to anticonvulsant drugs.
What current treatments are available?
If you’re currently treating your dog for seizures, you may be aware of various medications available. However, if you’re starting to figure out a treatment plan, we’ll get you up to speed. Current medications include phenobarbital, potassium bromide, diazepam, and other anticonvulsant drugs. Unfortunately, these drugs can cause serious side effects in some dogs. What’s worse is that even with traditional medication, 30% of dogs still experience seizures. Giving your dog a treatment he or she doesn’t enjoy — such as forcing them to swallow a pill — is likely unenjoyable for either of you. What’s worse is that these medications can be costly. Worse yet, almost a third of the time, they don’t provide relief.
Where can I find CBD that my dog will like?
You know your dog better than anyone. Is he or she a picky eater? Do they not like you messing around their mouth? This all factors into what type of CBD your dog will respond to best. They may actually even enjoy it!
You should keep in mind when starting them on a new CBD regimen, however, to start small. Choose the form that you think will give you and your dog success. Consult your veterinarian, too, and keep them in the loop prior to giving your dog CBD. If your dog is on other medications or has a specialized diet, there may be some potential interactions that could make your dog feel worse.
There are a few different ways to give your dog CBD. They’re essentially the same options that you have as their human.
- Sublingually with a tincture: If you think your dog will tolerate you holding his or her mouth open and dropping in a tincture oil — go for it! Try to get the tincture under their tongue for the quickest results. This will work well if you’re trying to head out the door and you want them to settle in.
- Through a tincture on food: Putting tinctures directly onto your dog’s food is a safe bet, especially if they’re a good eater (or a fast eater).
- Edibles: Want to turn your dog’s CBD into a reward, there are plenty of treats available with CBD already baked in!
One of the best parts about CBD as a treatment option is that you have more power over how much you spend, and you know what your dog is getting. If he or she does not respond to a small serving of CBD, continue to give it to them regularly. If after a few weeks you still aren’t noticing any improvements, consult your veterinarian. Give a larger serving, if necessary. Or, choose a high-potency option. After all, dogs are family. It’s likely that you want to be uncompromising when it comes to their health. CBD may be just what they need for their seizures.
