Cannabis contains very unique molecules called phytocannabinoids , notably 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). THC is well known to all because it is responsible for the typical effects of cannabis use: increased appetite, sedation, motor impairment…. but it has also shown great therapeutic potential in pathologies such as cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. CBD, for its part, also provides benefits but does not generate psychotropic effects.
It is precisely CBD, we insist, without psychotropic effects, that is used mostly in products with hemp extract authorized for pets. THC levels are practically non-existent and pets don’t get “high.”
Mammals have a system called SEC (endocannabinoid system) that regulates key physiological processes in the body such as pain, memory, temperature, mood, liver function, gastrointestinal …
SEC is made up of endocannabinoids (molecules that we have in the body and that have a structure similar to THC), their receptors and the enzymes that regulate them. SEC is a very important part of our body as it regulates and balances many mechanisms that make the body work properly. In fact, if the SEC is altered, diseases such as epilepsy, arthritis or allergies, among others, can occur.
At this point we ask ourselves, what can cannabis do for our dog or cat? Well, this substance provides phytocannabinoids, which would be the same as endocannabinoids but from a plant (hence the phyto) and, therefore, would help to restore the balance of the SEC of our companion animal .
The cannabis that can be given to the pet is hemp extraction oil from a variety with high levels of CBD and very low THC (the animal will not experience psychotropic effects). It also contains other phytocannabionoids such as CBG or CBN, terpenes, flavonoids, antioxidants, proteins, minerals, B vitamins … which are beneficial for your body.
Today, hemp-derived products are used as nutritional supplements, always under the supervision of a veterinarian. In a study carried out by the University of Colorado (USA) it was found that the administration of hemp in dogs with joint problems helped to improve their mobility and quality of life.
There are also publications on the benefits of hemp or its derivatives (CBD) in cases of epilepsy, cognitive dysfunction, pain, inflammatory diseases … that can be consulted in the US National Library of Medicine.
At the veterinary level, in Spain Cristina Costa stands out, a professional who is investigating the benefits of the use of cannabis in pets and who is also testing in the Pain Unit of the Autonomous University of Barcelona the efficacy of a product with hemp extraction oil in animals with joint problems .
In the US, Gary Richter, Robert Silver and Caroline Coile have investigated the therapeutic use of cannabis for years. Their clinical experiences and recommendations can be read in different books and scientific publications.
