Natural pet healthcare has gained traction with the emergence of herbal remedies like CBD for dogs. Given our historical use of kratom's health benefits, it's logical to consider extending its uplifting, calming, and pain-relieving properties to our furry companions.
So, what exactly is kratom, and how might it benefit dogs? Kratom is an herbal supplement extracted from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, native to regions including Indonesia, Thailand, and Malaysia. Traditionally, kratom leaves were brewed into teas, but contemporary users prefer powdered forms and capsules for consumption, seeking its stimulating and relaxing effects.
The active compounds in kratom, namely mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine alkaloids, interact with opioid receptors in the body, eliciting feelings of euphoria, sedation, and pain relief. Given that animals also possess opioid receptors, there's speculation that kratom may confer similar benefits to dogs.
Kratom may be used by pet owners to alleviate anxiety, arthritis, chronic pain, seizures, and fatigue in dogs. Its potential benefits include anxiety relief, pain management, seizure reduction, and energy enhancement, making it a versatile option for improving canine well-being.
The science behind kratom safety for dogs
Over the past two decades, the majority of kratom research has utilized rats as experimental subjects. While some scientists argue that the findings can be extrapolated to other mammals, including dogs, pertinent conclusions have emerged regarding the potential canine use of Mitragyna speciosa. Noteworthy studies have indicated:
1. A study conducted in 2007 revealed that rats exhibited reduced struggles with morphine withdrawal after being administered kratom alkaloids. This finding could hold relevance for pets reliant on pain medication.
2. Research from 2008 demonstrated that the herb slows down gastrointestinal function in rats, potentially alleviating diarrhea. Normal digestion typically resumes within a two-week period.
3. A comprehensive review in 2017, focusing on kratom's efficacy for chronic pain management in rodents, concluded that the herb was as effective as or even more effective than morphine. Furthermore, it suggested a lower risk of addiction compared to traditional painkillers.
Given the similarities in physiological responses between rats and dogs, it is speculated that kratom may exert similar effects on canines. Ongoing research endeavors, such as an upcoming study on its impact on osteoarthritic pain in dogs, aim to further investigate this claim.
Kratom dosage chart for dogs
Kratom exhibits effects that vary based on dosage, with lower doses providing energy and higher doses inducing a calming effect. Similarly, your canine companion is likely to experience similar responses.
The primary guideline to follow is to never administer your dog more than one-third of the human dose. Larger breeds necessitate higher doses, typically around one-third of the human dose, while smaller breeds require significantly smaller amounts, usually around one-sixth.
Below is a dosing chart for kratom in dogs based on their size.
Best kratom strains for dogs
Kratom strains exhibit diverse colors and originate from different countries, resulting in slightly varied chemical compositions. This diversity allows users to select between stronger or milder options with either energizing or calming effects.
Top kratom strains recommended for dogs
Which strain is most suitable for dogs? Pet owners often recommend the following strains:
- Green Maeng Da: This potent variety offers both stimulating and sedating effects. It proves effective in small doses and can be adjusted easily. Ideal for providing energy stimulation and pain relief.
- Red Sumatra: Moderately potent, this strain induces calming and sleep-inducing effects. Its effects tend to last longer, making it suitable for all-day relief.
- Green Malay: Known for its energizing properties, Green Malay enhances mood without causing drowsiness or sedation. Green Malay capsules are suitable for dogs in need of a gentle energy boost.
Potential risks of kratom for dogs
Is it possible for kratom to cause fatality or severe harm to dogs? Such outcomes are highly improbable.
Concerns regarding kratom toxicity may arise due to its chemical similarity to substances found in coffee and chocolate, which are known to be harmful to canines. However, a study conducted in 1992 demonstrated that a dosage of 920 mg/kg of kratom did not result in toxicity in dogs, effectively debunking this concern.
For a dog to experience severe or lethal effects from kratom, it would need to ingest massive quantities of the substance. Nevertheless, controlled consumption does not guarantee complete safety.
Dogs may exhibit various side effects from kratom consumption, including nausea, dry mouth, vomiting, constipation, and headaches. If any of these symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, it is advisable to seek veterinary assistance.
To mitigate the risk of adverse reactions, it is essential to administer kratom to dogs in appropriate doses. Some veterinarians recommend the use of probiotics to aid in alkaloid digestion and minimize potential risks.
The bottom line
It appears that dogs may tolerate and potentially derive benefits from kratom. While the herb could potentially aid in supporting the physical and mental well-being of pets, it's essential to exercise caution until comprehensive safety studies are conducted.
Consulting with a holistic veterinarian before administering kratom to your dog is advisable. Additionally, maintaining vigilant observation of your pet's response can help mitigate risks associated with trial and error.
Ensuring proper dosing, utilizing lab-tested products, and diligent monitoring are paramount for safeguarding your dog's well-being. Explore our store for access to pure supplements suitable for both humans and pets!
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