Anyone looking for further proof that our pups are just like us (except with a few extra legs and a lot more fur!) only needs to watch them grow older. As the dog years start to add up, they tend to suffer the same troubles as their ageing humans. And that means you'll need to look out for arthritis.
Arthritis causes many changes in the affected joints that can be very painful. The good news is that there are many ways to treat this ailment, and CBD oil for dogs with arthritis is probably the best!
What is Arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is a natural part of getting older. The protective cartilage that cushions and lubricates the places where our pup's bones meet wears down or deteriorates over time. If our dogs lose enough of it, bone eventually ends up rubbing directly on bone. The connective tissues that hold the joint together and keep the muscles attached start to disintegrate and the whole area becomes painfully inflamed.
Arthritis is unfortunately a permanent disease that affects most domestic dogs. As arthritis increases, it makes it harder for a dog to jump, play or get up after laying or sitting down and the pain intensifies when the weather is damp and cold.
How do I know if my dog has arthritis?
It’s pretty easy to spot the signs:
• Your pup doesn't move like they used to
• Their enthusiasm is zapped
• They seem totally lethargic
• They stop running and jumping
• Playing a lot less
• Lying down and getting up is hard work
• Lameness in their legs.
• Stairs will be tough
In addition, your dog may even get a little cranky when you touch them. These symptoms might be something else (always check with your vet), but most of the time it's pointing to arthritis, and there’s lots we can do if it is:
How can we help them?
• Give them a nice soft, thick-padded bed in a warm place
• Use ramps or little steps to help them get up on your sofa and bed
• Take them out for plenty of exercise, even if it’s just slow, gentle walks
• Put carpets over slippery floors to prevent falls
• Add a Golden Paste (it's quick and easy to make) to their meals
Your doggo will be grateful for all of these things, but what they may thank you for the most is some CBD.
Can CBD help my dog with arthritis?
CBD products like Gizzls Treats for Dogs can help reduce pain while also targeting inflammation. Dogs love our treats! They are made from organic ingredients, contain essential nutrients like turmeric, omega 3’s and potent antioxidants to help counteract the arthritis. CBD oil is also a great way to administer concentrated doses of CBD to pets easily and safely.
The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD play an important part in treating arthritis and it has potent anti-arthritic therapeutic properties that assist in improving the condition of your pooch and protecting the joints.
It's a natural pain reliever and cannabinoids help in controlling pain by inhibiting the transmission of pain signals to the brain. Using CBD oil also helps in suppressing chronic inflammation without inducing analgesic tolerance and will improve the quality of life for your arthritic dog.
Unlike prescription drugs, CBD oil doesn’t have any dangerous side effects. It doesn’t damage the liver, kidney, or the gastrointestinal tract, nor make your dog high or sedated. Using CBD oil for dogs’ arthritis is a holistic approach that will help your dog cope with this degenerative disease. You’ll see your dog walking, if not running again in no time!
Can do I use CBD for my dog with arthritis?
Dosage: A good rule of thumb is to start with 1.5mg – 3mg for every 5kg of weight. So for a 30kg dog, you would use 18mg of CBD per day (4 treats per day). See our dosage guide.
When: Give your dog CBD in the morning and evening. CBD lasts between 4-8 hours, slightly longer for older pups with slower digestion. So we recommend a serving size in the morning and evening, so that it stays continuously in their system working its magic.
Consistency: Make sure to give CBD to your dog every day, at the same time, to see the best results. If, after a few days, the amount you gave is not enough, feel free to increase the amount you give until you see them feeling more mobile and happier.
It might take some experimenting to find the right amount to give your own fur ball. That’s okay – CBD is safe and natural, so no worries if your pet gets a little more or less than needed while you figure things out.