The Difference Between Hemp Oil & CBD Oil for Dogs
When it comes to your family pets, you often want to make sure they have the best care out there for their needs. With all the home remedies, pet pharmaceuticals, and a rise in veterinary care, many animal lovers often seek out alternative treatments for their dog’s pain and other health conditions.
People often look into the many herbal home remedies seeking out an answer to their pup’s health woes. While there are many treatments available, sometimes vitamins and certain herbal supplements might just be what the veterinarian ordered. After all, certain herbs have been proven to help alleviate pain and/or discomfort in both humans and animals.
Two of those herbal solutions are hemp oil and CBD oil. Both have been found to do wonders for many health issues in humans, but it turns out these two oils can work well for both dogs and cats too. But are they really the same? What is the difference between using hemp oil and CBD oil for pets? Does each oil have a different effect on dogs?
While both oils are extracted from hemp and cannabis plants, there are some major differences in how they are made and how they are used. This short guide on cannabis oils for pets will help you figure out what each oil is, how these oils work on your dog, the drawbacks of using either, and more.
Hemp Oil and CBD Oil: Medicinal Uses Versus Nutrition for Your Pets
Millions may have already heard of all the uses hemp and CBD oil have for human health, but what about your pets? While studies are still being conducted on the effects of CBD oil and hemp seed oil, it has been found to be beneficial to animals and humans alike.
When it comes to using these oils you have to determine the purpose for why you are using them. Hemp seed oil is better for nutritional purposes and has a few health benefits. CBD hemp oil is medicinal in essence and should be used as directed by your veterinarian. Both are great for dogs, but for different reasons.
What is CBD Oil?
CBD (cannabidiol) hemp oil (See: Most Effective Cannabis Oil for Dogs) is the byproduct that occurs through extraction from the cannabis plant’s stalks, flowers, leaves. While CBD hemp oil is free of the psychoactive substance THC, it is not entirely free of other types of cannabinoids that can cause some stress for your dog.
You can purchase this oil as either a tincture for precise dosing, CBD oil extracts or in dog edibles such as CBD hemp oil dog biscuits.
What is Hemp Oil?
Hemp seed oil is the byproduct of pressing hemp seeds. This oil contains high amounts of protein, amino and fatty acids such as omega-3, omega-6 and omega-9, and in some cases low levels of CBD. Due to this, it does not have any psychoactive components or cannabinoids, which makes it safe to ingest for your pets and can be an added nutritional boost to your dog’s food.
Hemp seed oil is typically sold as either an extract or tincture. This is so you can dose it properly for your dog by adding a few drops into their favorite dog food brand.
How CBD Oil Can Benefit Your Dog’s Health
There are many benefits to using CBD hemp oil for your dog. If you have an aging pup in pain or a dog that gets stressed by loud noises, then CBD hemp oil may be the perfect solution for your dog. There are plenty of other perks to using CBD hemp oil for your dog’s needs such as:
1.) Reduces anxiety
2.) Can be used to treat epilepsy and seizures
3.) Helps fight cancer
4.) Helps with inflammatory bowel disease
5.) Increases appetite and helps against nausea
6.) It helps reduce chronic inflammation and improve blood sugar levels
7.) Helps relieve pain
8.) The oil helps reduce autoimmune diseases
9.) Helps protect your dog’s nervous system
10.) Helps with dog’s who suffer from neurodegenerative diseases
11.) Helps your dog’s cardiovascular health
12.) Helps relieve joint pain in aging dogs
How Hemp Seed Oil Can Benefit Your Dog’s Health
Hemp seed oil is a lighter version of CBD hemp oil. It isn’t as strong but can still benefit your dog’s health and is great for those who are concerned about THC content. Dosage will most likely need to be determined by your veterinarian unless you are using hemp seed oil dog treats.
1.) Improves skin and coat health
2.) Boosts immune system function
3.) The hemp seed oil helps reduce joint pain
4.) Nutritious for your dog thanks to the high amino fatty acid and protein content
The Drawbacks of Using Either CBD Oils and Hemp Oils for Your Pets
While both types of oils are great for your dog, there are a few drawbacks to using these oils with your pets. Most testing done on the effects of CBD and hemp oil were conducted on rats, so caution is still advised before administering any natural oils. Make sure the type of hemp oils you are using is approved by your veterinarian and complies with organic standards.
Also, never give your dog or cat a cannabis product that contains THC. THC is toxic to pets, so make sure you buy hemp products that are formulated specifically for dogs and cats. Tinctures are often the safest bet since they are the most processed. Make sure you always follow the dosages for your dog as specified by either the guidelines set by your veterinarian or the product’s instructions.
There are a few health side effects to using hemp products with your dog. Some of these side effects are:
- Low blood pressure
- Body tremors
- Increased water intake
- Oversleeping
- Disorientation or dizziness
These side effects are rare but should be noted in the event that they occur. If your dog exhibits any of these side effects, make sure to cut down the usage of hemp products and consult your veterinarian immediately for further instructions.
Hemp Oil vs CBD Oil for Dogs Final Thoughts
When it comes to your dog’s health you will always want what is best for them, whether it be to get them to eat a little more of their kibble or simply not feel as anxious. Whatever the reason you have, you can easily find a solution in alternative pet remedies.
While CBD hemp oil and hemp seed oil may come from the same plant, they differ in the way they can be used for your pet. If you are looking to boost your dog’s diet, go with hemp seed oil. If you are hoping to help your pet with anxiety or pain-relief, use CBD hemp oil.
