Is Delta 8 THC Right for Your Pet? Everything You Need to Know

You love your pet like family, which means you hate to see them scared or stressed. But while you do everything you can to keep your furry friend happy, things like car trips, thunderstorms, and injury can leave them anxious or in chronic pain. 

If you’re like many pet owners who want to bring their pet quick and simple relief, you may have heard about CBD and Delta 8 THC. But what are they, and how do they differ? Is one of them right for your pet?

We want your pet to be happy and healthy, which is why we’ve put together this guide on animals and Delta 8. Keep reading if you want to know vital information that could help your pet when they’re not feeling their best. 

What Is Delta 8 THC?

There are over 100 types of cannabinoids within the hemp plant, each with its own properties and effects.

Most people are familiar with a cannabinoid called Delta 9 THC, the chemical in marijuana that causes a high. But there’s also a cannabinoid called Delta 8, and it’s quickly gaining popularity. 

Essentially, Delta 8 is a far less potent version of Delta 9. Because Delta 8 is a psychoactive chemical, it does promote relaxing properties, but those which are much weaker than a Delta 9 “high”.

Delta 8 is typically used by people looking for more intense relief than CBD can provide, but less of a “high” feeling than they would get from Delta 9. Legal in all but 11 states, Delta 8 CBD is used for pain relief, anxiety, depression, and just recreational enjoyment. 

Because Delta 8 is a cannabinoid like CBD is, some have started to wonder if their pets could benefit from it the same way their owners do. 

Is Delta 8 Safe For Animals?

The short answer? From the right company and in the right methods, so make sure to educate yourself.

While it’s well known that Delta 9 THC is toxic for both cats and dogs, even in smalls amounts, the impacts of Delta 8 CBD may be less impactful. What’s more, there’s not much information yet about what doses of Delta 8 for animals would look like. 

Cats and dogs have far more cannabinoid receptors in their brain, making them far more sensitive to both the toxic and psychoactive elements in THC. So while it can be difficult enough to prepare the proper dose of Delta 8 CBD for yourself, it’s even more so for animals.

Even a small amount of THC can be toxic to a pet, and the effects of the THC will be more intense than in humans. 

For now, the safest option is avoiding THC-focused doses and sticking to CBD when medicating your pets. 

What Hemp Products Are Safe For Pets?

Besides just THC, another popular cannabinoid is CBD. Already used in many pet treatments, CBD is a nonpsychoactive cannabinoid that promotes relaxation but doesn’t produce a high. 

While the FDA doesn’t regulate CBD, it’s legal in all 50 states for medical use as of 2021. Popular for human and animal use, CBD produces no high and induces relaxation and pain relief. 

Taken daily, CBD oil is well known for promoting homeostasis and regulating bodily systems like sleep, appetite, and moods. 

How Can I Give My Pet CBD? 

CBD is safe, but it isn’t regulated. If you think your pet could benefit from CBD, speak with your vet to be sure. After that, ensure that you only purchase high-quality CBD with vitamins that will help boost your pet’s daily life like those from Happy Paws 4 Life.

While some pet owners will give their pet a CBD dosage before a stressful situation or during a rainstorm, others include it as a part of a daily routine.

If your vet has approved CBD use for your pet, you can begin two daily doses for around two weeks. Follow dosage recommendation guides for your pet’s breed and size, and be sure to monitor your pet and how they react to their CBD supplement. 

You can give your pet their CBD oil under their tongue, add it to their food, or put it on their treats. Remember to have patience, as it can take a little time to see the benefits of CBD and its regulatory properties.

Most pet owners see improvement in their pets within two weeks, but if you don’t, consult your vet for advice on changing dosage. 

What if a CBD Product Has THC?

Many high-quality CBD products have trace amounts of THC. As long as you aren’t giving your pet more than the recommended dose, you shouldn’t need to worry. 

In small enough amounts, Delta 8 THC can boost the effectiveness of CBD without causing any harm. This is called the entourage effect, and it’s part of what makes our products so helpful for pets. 

Because our CBD oils contain less than .3% THC, your pet will get increased symptom relief and health benefits but won’t be impacted by the Delta 8. 

Pet Owners Guide to Delta 8

It’s hard to escape talk about CBD and THC these days, especially as the market for both continues to grow. But while many people already use CBD for pets, you should avoid giving your pet doses of Delta 8 THC. Unlike CBD, THC can easily become toxic in cats and dogs, especially when you don’t know how you should dose. So if you’re looking for a good product that will keep your pet living their best life, a high-quality CBD oil with .3% THC or less is likely your best bet.  Want to learn more about CBD and how it can help your pet? Read more about our amazing line of products and how they could help your furry pal!