Study Investigates CBD+CBDA Compounds
A study conducted by a team of veterinarians investigated whether CBD and CBDA was an effective therapy for skin issues in dogs. These include itchy skin that makes the dog want to frequently and vigorously scratch. Andrew Rosenberg, DVM, DACVD, presented the study and its results at the New York Vet Show held in November 2022. Rosenberg owns Animal Dermatology & Allergy Specialists in New York.
This study was a randomized, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled project that lasted four weeks. There were 32 dogs studied, with 17 dogs receiving a 2 mg/kg mix of CBD and CBDA, while the placebo dog group received sesame seed oil capsules. The dogs had a CADESI-4 score of 10-60, a measure of the severity of the skin disorders. They also had a pVAS score greater than or equal to 3-8 centimeters. The pVAS score is a measure of the pruritis itch level.
The results found that the lesions or severity did not improve over the four weeks, but itchy skin was noticeably improved. The researchers believe this may be because CBD/CBDA affects the endocannabinoid pathway. The treatment dog group improved by 2.2 cm on the pVAS scale for itchiness at the end of week four. In contrast, the placebo group experienced a .1 cm improvement.
Rosenberg said there were no severe adverse effects. The dog owners essentially verified the results, with 10 out of 17 owners of dogs in the treatment group saying their dog scratched less and would use CBD/CBDA again.
Itchy skin is a common reason for vet visits and is usually a medical condition symptom. Just like skin itchiness in humans, it can make the dog miserable. The frequent scratching can also worsen the symptoms of the underlying skin disorder causing itchiness. This study reflects the growing interest in CBD as a treatment for various pet health issues and for promoting general well-being. With an estimated 77 million dogs in the U.S.A., per the American Veterinary Medical Association, research on CBD for pets is an important study area for pet owners.
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