Ease Pet Anxiety During Storms with CBD

Many of us pet owners have experienced the following scenario on a number of occasions: Everything is calm and peaceful at home and our furry family member is as happy as ever, enjoying the afternoon, and behaving as they normally do – bright-eyed and full of energy. Then, the skies outside go from clear to cloudy and a thunderstorm begins to roll in. Suddenly, our pet (who was previously energetic and happy) becomes quite the opposite, and signs of fear may become evident.

For many dogs a thunderstorm may cause extreme anxiety. It is not at all unusual to see a dog that is normally very good-natured become panicked or exhibiting fearful behaviors such as hiding, trembling, urinating in the house, even trying frantically to escape. Other dogs may display destructive behavior such as chewing on furniture or barking and howling. These are all very common reactions for anxious dogs during storms.

What Causes Anxiety in Dogs?

Even though many of us are familiar with the scenario above, we often still don’t know why it occurs. For some dogs, it may simply be the loud sounds and the bright flashing lights that cause these feelings. Other dog's fear a memory of a previous bad experience outside during thunderstorm activity. Or, it could even be the change in barometric pressure that triggers these behavioral changes.

Whatever the cause, the truth of the matter is that it is very difficult as dog owners to watch a pet that we love struggle in this way during a thunderstorm. As a result, many are seeking safe, natural, strategies and products that have calming effects. Fortunately, there are a number of promising possibilities for doing exactly that.

How to Soothe Your Dog during a Thunderstorm

As is the case with people, each dog is different. As a result, what works best for one dog might not be best for another. Here are some commonly used methods and natural remedies, including CBD, on how to help dogs who feel anxious during thunderstorms:

• Create a Safe Place: As is the case with people, for pets, a calming, soothing environment can go a long way toward relieving anxiety. Does your dog have a crate where it feels comfortable? A favorite toy, blanket, or pillow? Is there a room in your house that is soundproof, has fewer windows, or has white noise? If so, finding that safe space during a thunderstorm may help reduce your dog’s anxiety. If you are able to remain in the room with your dog during this time, that is even better as dogs often love their people most of all.
• Invest in a Thundershirt: A thundershirt is a type of wrap-type clothing placed on dogs to reduce anxiety. Its unique design provides constant yet gentle pressure to the dog’s body, thereby producing a calming effect. Many, who have used the thundershirt with success, say that it helps with anxiety in any number of situations – including separation anxiety, thunderstorms, fear of other loud noises, travel stress, and more.
• CBD Products: If you follow health and wellness news at all, chances are you may have heard a great deal lately about cannabidiol (or CBD, for short). Extracted directly from the hemp plant, CBD is a natural product that is non-addictive, and works directly with the endocannabinoid system present in both dogs and humans. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a system that plays an important role in helping to maintain homeostasis (or balance in our bodies), and it accomplishes this through a number of receptors that interact with cannabinoids – both those naturally produced in the body and those from outside sources, like CBD. When CBD is ingested, it interacts directly with the cannabinoid receptors and may encourage beneficial effects.

CBD Benefits

The benefits of CBD are to reduce stress levels in pets and increase overall feelings of calm and well-being. This can be particularly helpful in situations, like thunderstorms, which make our pets nervous and cause dog anxiety.

CBD is also beneficial for dogs that may have joint pain, chronic pain, or mobility issues, especially older dogs, or larger dogs. Best practices are to check with your vet for expert medical advice.

How to use Pet CBD oil

There are a number of ways to easily and effectively administer CBD to your dog. One of the most popular of which is a CBD tincture. While many have heard the word “tincture,” it may remain unclear as to exactly what a tincture is and how it can help. A CBD tincture is simply a potent, pure CBD extract that is combined with a carrier oil such as MCT oil, hemp seed oil, or olive oil. Dog CBD oil can be administered by the dropperful directly into your pets mouth, or can be mixed with your dog’s food, depending upon your dog’s preference.

Other CBD Options

CBD dog treats are another great option for administering CBD to your furry friend. These CBD treats can be soft chews, or biscuits, and are usually flavored with flavorful natural ingredients such as beef, liver, or peanut butter. Most treats range in strength from 2 to 10mg of CBD per treat. Treats are an effective way of delivering CBD if it is not meal time, or your anxious pet does not want to take the CBD oil by mouth.

Dog Lovers CBD Dosing Guide

As pet parents, it is a good idea to follow these dosing guidelines:

• small dogs up to 25 pounds - 2-4 mg of CBD
• medium dogs up to 50 pounds 4 - 8 mg of CBD
• large dogs greater than 50 pounds 8 - 12 mg of CBD

Side Effects of CBD

Luckily there are very few negative side effects to giving your best friend CBD, and typically only occurs if they are given too much CBD. However if your dog becomes lethargic, has intestinal upset, or dry mouth, please discontinue use and speak to your veterinarian.

The best CBD oil for dogs are those that are broad spectrum, or THC Free. THC can be dangerous for pets even in small doses.

Where to Find Pet CBD

Palm Organix™ CBD pet CBD products are THC free. If you are interested in starting your pet on a CBD supplement it is important to find quality reputable products. We encourage you to contact Palm Organix™ today. We would be happy to listen to your personal story and which CBD pet products might be a fit. You are always welcome to contact us either online or via phone during business hours. We look forward to helping your pet achieve a calmer disposition during storm season.