Over the past 5 years, there has been a growing interest in using phytocannabinoids, specifically cannabidiol (CBD), in veterinary medicine to treat various conditions such as pain, epilepsy, anxiety, nausea, anorexia, skin lesions, and even certain types of cancer. Pet owners are increasingly requesting CBD as a means to alleviate their pets’ discomfort, and veterinarians are exploring this option for their patients. While CBD is commonly used empirically in pets, research is being conducted to gather evidence of its effectiveness, safety, and appropriate dosage. This review provides a summary of all published data on the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and tolerability of CBD and cannabidiolic acid (CBDA) in canines.
Despite the availability of some pharmacokinetic studies, the complete kinetic profile of CBD is not yet fully understood, likely due to variations in experimental conditions. In terms of efficacy, most studies have focused on CBD’s ability to relieve osteoarthritic pain, while fewer studies have examined its role in epilepsy, behavioral disorders, and skin lesions. Although there is some evidence supporting the beneficial effects of CBD, caution is necessary when interpreting the findings due to the limited number of published studies and the presence of bias. Tolerability studies have shown that CBD’s side effects are generally mild or insignificant. However, most studies have focused on short- to medium-term treatment, whereas CBD is typically used for long-term treatment. Further research is needed to determine whether CBD can be a valuable adjunct in canine treatment.
The ECS can be described as a group of cannabinoid receptors, including CB1, CB2, GPR55, GPR119, TRPV, and PPAR. It also includes endocannabinoids like AEA and 2-AG, enzymes responsible for their production and breakdown, and genes that code for these proteins. Recently, it has been referred to as the “endocannabinoidome.”
This system plays a crucial role in maintaining the body’s balance and carries out various functions such as antioxidant, hypotensive, immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving actions. Additionally, the presence of cannabinoid receptors in the brain suggests their involvement in controlling movement, perception, sleep, appetite, learning, memory, emotional states, neuroprotection, and enhancing the effects of opioids. There are also indications that the ECS influences vasomotor functions, fertility, and tumor cell growth.
Needless to say, this is a new area of research with many possibile endings with further leads. There is a lot of talk about CBD being used for many different ailments in dogs, but little to back up proof with evidential data. That said, what is established is that it’s a viable option that may or may not provide the results dog owners are looking for. Regardless, advice from a vet is the best way to really know if it’s the right option.