They often say you can’t pick your family, which is mostly true. However, as many of us pet owners know, our family is not only made up of the humans living under our roof.

Having a dog or a cat can add something really special to a family dynamic, and guess what – we can pick them! As someone who has two dogs (and would have about five more if I could), I can speak first-hand to the type of bond I have created with these furry family members over the years. Our pets have this way of understanding us quite unlike anyone else can. They sense our joys, our sadness, our fears; and they constantly prove their undeniable loyalty through every phase of our lives.

As their owners, we take on the responsibility of being their caretaker, through sickness and in health. Their well-being is important to us and that’s why we are constantly seeking out ways to keep them healthy and/or aid in alleviating any health issues they may struggle with. With the increase in desire for natural health remedies, I think every pet parent should consider CBD  products for their pets as there are countless benefits that come from this natural supplement.

Behavioral and Situational Anxiety

Many of us are no stranger to owning a pet that suffers from anxiety; whether that be separation anxiety when we leave them home for a day at the office, or situational anxiety due to storms, fireworks, car rides, etc. CBD for anxiety works through the endocannabinoid system. This process allows the CBD compound to enter the brain, releasing serotonin and aiding in calming the body and giving relief to their anxiety.

Pain and Inflammation

As our pets get older, they tend to become more prone to experiencing pain and inflammation. Some of the most common health problems that cause pain and inflammation that can be alleviated by the use of CBD oil include arthritis, cancers, torn ligaments, sprains and surgery recovery. NSAIDS (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are typically prescribed to help treat the pain and inflammation that can come from these health issues; however, they commonly have adverse effects. CBD is a natural supplement and has shown to be much safer for your pets.

Skin Conditions 

Skin conditions are another health issue that CBD has been researched for treating. Many skin conditions stem from certain allergies that our pets may suffer from. Allergies could be related to pollen, grass, mold, other fur and even certain ingredients in their food. Because skin allergies typically increase a pet’s itching and discomfort, CBD is a great natural alternative to prescription creams and ointments. Using CBD for skin conditions can actually be done by having your pet ingest the supplement or by applying a few drops of oil (or other CBD topical product) directly to the affected area.

Nausea and Vomiting

CBD has become widely more popular for treating nausea and vomiting in cancer patients, so naturally, it has also started being used for the same in animals. While cancer treatment is one of the ways in which CBD is being used for animals, there are also more commonly occurring reasons pet owners have turned to CBD for nausea and vomiting  in their cats and dogs. Motion sickness, heat exposure and food intolerance are all common causes of nausea in pets, which can be aided by the use of CBD.

Being able to choose the furry friend that joins your family is a feeling like no other. Sometimes we look high and low for the perfect one, and sometimes, the perfect one just falls right into our lap. Whatever the case may be, we create a bond and a special kind of companionship that lasts even after they are gone. As their parents and their best friends, we are constantly looking for the best ways to keep them happy and healthy. Considering the use of a natural supplement like CBD has shown to have countless health benefits stemming from something as simple as every day separation anxiety to more advanced health issues. If you are someone who believes in the power of natural remedies and is seeking a way to better impact the health of your pets, I would consider looking into CBD, always keeping in mind to choose a brand that is reputable. You won’t regret your decision!

Sue’s Note: CBD is cannabidiol and although it is found in cannabis and hemp in most cases  CBD does not contain delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that gives marijuana its psychoactive properties. This is because most CBD products are derived from hemp and not from marijuana.