Pets, Fireworks, & CBD
Why Fireworks Terrify Our Furry Friends – And How CBD Can Help –
It’s that time of year when fireworks light up the sky and families gather to celebrate the nation’s independence. However, as much as we may enjoy the show, the same can’t be said for our furry friends. For many dogs, fireworks can be one of the scariest times of the year. Between loud bangs, bright flashes, and unfamiliar smells, it’s a sensory overload that can be overwhelming for our precious pets. Fortunately, there is a growing interest in using CBD to manage anxiety and help calm our canine companions. In this blog, we take an in-depth look at why fireworks scare dogs, how they cope, and how CBD could offer a solution. Let’s take a look at the relationship between pets, fireworks, & CBD.
Why Do Fireworks Scare Dogs?
Fireworks elicit a fear response in many dogs due to a combination of loud noise, bright lights, and unfamiliar smells. Dogs have a heightened sense of hearing, meaning that loud bangs come across much louder to them than to us. Additionally, the flashing lights and strange smells may trigger their ancestral responses to danger, causing them to panic.
How Do Dogs Cope With Loud Fireworks?
Dogs cope with the stress of fireworks in a variety of ways, from hiding under beds to running away from home. Some may shake, tremble or even become aggressive. Unfortunately, these reactions can be both horrifying to watch and dangerous for our pets. One approach to help manage their anxiety is desensitization training, which involves playing recordings of firework sounds at low volumes and gradually increasing the volume over time. This type of training should always be conducted under the supervision of an experienced trainer.
Can CBD Help Relax Dogs Afraid of Fireworks?
CBD has gained attention as a potential tool for managing anxiety in both humans and dogs. Our furry friends have an endocannabinoid system, similar to humans, meaning that they can benefit from the effects of CBD. The compounds in CBD interact with the receptors in the nervous system, helping to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. While research is always ongoing, many pet owners have reported positive results when using CBD.
What is CBD, and Is It Safe for Pets?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get your pet “high.” Studies in both humans and animals have found that CBD is generally safe and well-tolerated. However, it’s essential to choose high-quality CBD products that are specifically designed for pets, as human products may contain harmful additives.
How Much Should I Give My Dog?
Every dog is different, and the dosage of CBD depends on several factors, including their weight, age, and the intensity of their anxiety. As a general starting point, Green Balance CBD recommends 1mg for every 10 lbs. If you are unsure then start with a low dose and gradually increase it while monitoring their behavior.
Conclusion
As we enter the summer months and come across fireworks, many of us are likely wary about how our furry friends will respond. While it’s unfortunate that our pets have to struggle through the noise and flashing lights, it’s crucial to remember that, like us, they are just trying to cope with the fear and uncertainty. We’ve now covered the relationship between pets, fireworks, & CBD. There are a variety of ways to help animals manage their anxiety during these challenging times, and CBD is a promising new option. With continuous positive results, CBD has shown to help our furry friends feel a little bit more at ease during fireworks season and beyond.
