My Dog and His Cannabis Experience

Dogs, cats, reptiles, birds…most living things have an Endocannabinoid System (ECS).

---

The ECS is the most important physiologic system involved in establishing and maintaining our health (and our pets). Endocannabinoids and their receptors are found throughout the body: in the brain, organs, connective tissues, glands, and immune cells. In each tissue, the Cannabinoid System performs different tasks, but the goal is always the same: homeostasis, the maintenance of a stable internal environment despite fluctuations in the external environment. — Ethan Russo | Beyond Cannabis: Plants and the Endocannabinoid System

---

Learn more about Napoleon's Cannabis story.

Updated February 2021: Napoleon is a fourteen and half year old Pomeranian Terrier who might be small in stature but large in personality. We met at a veterinary hospital in North East Los Angeles where he was looking for a home, ‘given up’ as a puppy because his first family could not afford his treatment for Parvo Virus. He was only six months old, juggled from house to house until we met him.

---

Around two and half years old, he became hyperallergic and constant chewing became a problem for roughly 8 months a year. Tragically, this persisted for years and even more tragic…we (my wife is a Registered Veterinary Technician) did not want to give steroids to control his reactions. Our decision left Mr. Napoleon in an Elizabethan Collar aka E-Collar aka satellite dish for months-on-end every year. Thankfully, he is such a good boy tolerating the cone with seemingly no lasting psychological damage to his infectious personality. He's also a vegetarian, believing in the early years it was a food allergy. It's definitely environmental allergens but think he is also sensitive to chicken. Despite allergies and cone wearing, he was a very active dog, going for hikes in the San Gabriels, loving to run off-leash and go everywhere with us…cone or not.

---

Napoleon’s Cannabis story didn’t start until age eight. His veterinarians are aware of his Cannabis use. We also recommend a consultation with a Canna-Nurse when thinking about adding THC to your pet’s Cannabinoid regime.

---

Dogs' Sensitivity to THC

---

The anatomical sites and density of Endocannabinoids receptors vary between animals. In humans, these receptors are not located in the brainstem or medulla oblongata, which control vital functions for life such as respiration and heart rate. The lack of receptors in these regions is responsible for the safe profile of Cannabis for humans.

---

Research has found dogs have far more CB1 receptors in the cerebellum than do humans, and they also have receptors in the brainstem and medulla oblongata. Due to the high density of Endocannabinoid receptors in the cerebellum, dogs can suffer from a unique neurological reaction to THC called static ataxia. It can cause dogs to stand rigidly and rock back and forth, as if trying to move but cannot. The dog might drool, pupils might dilate, muscles get very tense, and the dog might look to be suffering from unpleasant, fear provoking drug induced hallucinations.

---

Allergies

---

The Endocannabiniod System is intertwined with skin, an organ. Research has shown that Transient Receptor Potential ion channels often referred to as TRPs can act as “ionotropic cannabinoid receptors”. (2) The human TRPV3 was first described as a keratinocytes, an epidermal cell that produces keratin. (3) Phytocannabinoids modulate inflammatory responses by regulating the production of cytokines in several experimental models of inflammation. (4) A 2018 study published in Veterinary Dermatology regarding cats, “Increased expression of cannabinoid receptors in the skin of cats with hypersensitivity dermatitis suggests an endogenous protective strategy and may support the use of natural cannabinoid receptor or PPAR‐α agonists to treat feline hypersensitivity dermatitis.” (1)

---

Everyone’s Endocannabinoid System is unique to them, including pets. In the last 5 years, legalization and innovation has provided patients in legal markets, a wide choice of Cannabinoids and ratios, and delivery methods. Napoleon’s Cannabis story starts, before I became a Medical patient, with CBD treats purchased from a local boutique pet store in town. After becoming a Medical patient (catalyst was father’s Stage 4 Cancer diagnosis), we slowly incorporated more Cannabinoids in the form of tinctures to his regime. We mix the tinctures into an empty vegetable glycerin capsule that he happily swallows when given with a pill pocket. Tinctures marketed for animals usually have fish oil that make it more appealing. Cannabis tinctures for human consumption do not contain fish oil and some animals won’t like the flavor if mixed in with food or add to a treat without being masked.

---

We graduated from the CBD treats to a hemp CBD tincture from CW Botanicals, creators of the famous hemp Charlotte’s Web strain that made world news for helping epileptic children. With no real change, I came across MyCannaKids and added their THCA, the unactivated form of THC. Again, not sure how it was all working as he was still itchy but was he less itchy? I switched brands and added CBDA and THC to the formula. I found success with 1:1 CBD:THC, THCA and CBDA tinctures mixed together in a capsule given twice a day. Continually modulating the Endocannabinoid System to homeostatis is work, but we have been cone free ever since. An exception is a reaction to a flea bite, nothing alleviates the reaction that lasts at least two weeks.

---

We also utilize a 2:1 CBD:THC transdermal topical ointment. This helps on any rash he might have or area where it's inflamed because of chewing, scratching, razor burn or any other reason. We also use it for pain relief. We use Cannariginals, a California Medical Cannabis company, that utilizes Emu Oil as the transdermal carrier. Not everyone is able to access a proven Cannabis topical transdermal but Cannabis topicals that use MCT oil (coconut oil), olive oil or other type are still effective for some topical allergy and pain relief.

---

Pain Relief

---

Napoleon is a tough little dog, who is all Terrier in the front and Pomeranian in the back. He’s led an active lifestyle from carefree runs on the beaches of Southern California, to rugged hikes in the mountains, to off-leash walks at CSULB. Unfortunately, it has led to two knee ligament surgeries, one on each leg.

---

The Endocannabinoid System is also involved in the actions of pain. The primary neuro-modulatory receptor, Cannabinoid Receptor 1 (CB1R), accounting for psychopharmacological effects of THC and most of its analgesic (pain relieving) effects are located in all major areas of a dog’s brain, neurons within the spinal cord and on primary afferent neurons (neurons on nerves fibers). (5) The CB2R receptor also plays a part on the effects of pain, both neuropathic and inflammatory and is present throughout the body. They are located in the Central Nervous System, in tissues of immune cells such as the spleen and thymus, and in the brain. Further Cannabinoid receptors, such as GPR55 otherwise referred to as the third Cannabinoid receptor, also plays a role in the modulation of pain and other functions in our pet’s body. (6)

---

Why does Cannabis work well for inflammation and pain relief? Cannabinoids, endo and phyto, participate in retrograde signaling. It serves as an inhibitory feedback mechanism that tells other neurotransmitters to cool it when they are firing too fast. When tickled by THC or its endogenous cousins, Cannabinoid receptors trigger a cascade of biochemical changes on a cellular level that puts the brakes on excessive physiological activity. Endocannabinoids are the only neurotransmitters that engage in “retrograde signaling,” a form of intracellular communication that inhibits immune response, reduces inflammation, relaxes musculature, lowers blood pressure, dilates bronchial passages, and normalizes overstimulated nerves. Retrograde signaling serves as an inhibitory feedback mechanism that tells other neurotransmitters to cool it when they are firing too fast. (17)

---

Cannabis works well at reducing pain and inflammation but not so much for acute pain. There are times when a stronger analgesic is required. In those times, research shows Cannabis works in synergy with opioids. Michael Backes, author of Cannabis Pharmacy: The Practical Guide to Medical Marijuana says, “Cannabis is best described as being able to provide significant distraction from pain, rather than relief associated with opioids. Cannabis is also “opioid-sparing” meaning if you use it with conventional opioid pain medications, your doctor can typically reduce the opioid dose.” Napoleon has experienced those times after two knee surgeries and a splenectomy due to benign growth.

---

Napoleon is going to be 13 years old next year, already a senior dog. Equivalent to a 60 - 70 year old man with bad knees, he must have some chronic aches and pains but doesn’t show any symptoms. He also has been diagnosed with some degeneration of his spinal cord. For the last several years, he has been receiving a daily Cannabinoid regimen to combat every day aches and pains with changes to the protocol over time. Currently, he is on a 4:1 CBD:THC tincture administered two to three times daily. A recent study showed that due to the pharmacokinetics of Cannabidiol, dogs can benefit from three daily doses of orally administered CBD. (7)

---

He hurt his second knee in January/February of this year. We made a couple of bad mistakes, the first was thinking he re-hurt is bad knee and second was cage resting him for months before his surgery. Dogs with surgically repaired knee ligaments usually suffer the same injury in the other leg. We caged rested him for several weeks which turned into months and he was still lame. In April, we confirmed that he had not re-injured his "bad" knee and he had surgery. At the time of surgery, he had been cage rested for a couple of months and his leg had atrophied, a big mistake. A couple of months post-surgery with his leg noticeably smaller than the other, he suffered a set-back. His Veterinarians, general practitioner and Surgeon, have conflicting opinions regarding the status of his knee. During winter months from November/December to February/March, I can typically decrease the amount of THC in his daily regimen when allergy season is low. But during times of injury such as a tearing a knee ligament, I increase the amount of THC to help with pain distraction and inflammation. I also utilize the topical transdermal, 2:1 CBD:THC, by rubbing it on the inside of the knee where there is less hair. I personally know how well Cannariginals topical ointment helps with pain relief, I utilize it for sciatica nerve pain.

---

In hindsight, he should have undergone physical rehab to strengthen it before surgery. After consulting his surgeon, Napoleon underwent 5 weeks of hydro-therapy and exercises with the goal of strengthening his leg, hoping that would stabilize the knee. After 10, 1 hour sessions of hydro-therapy and exercises with homework, his leg has regained muscle mass and both legs are equal in size. And his gate is back to normal. We have slowly increased the distance of his walks and he is able to trot, which is his normal walking speed. He seems to be doing great on his 4:1 CBD:THC ratio for his pain relief.

---

We Add Raw Cannabinoids to the Mix

---

Are you wondering what raw Cannabinoids are? Raw Cannabinoids are the molecules before they are activated. A Carboxyl Acid group (COOH) is attached to the Cannabinoid molecules and they are designated with an “A” in their abbreviations, for example THCA is the raw form of THC and Cannabidiolic Acid (CBDA) is the inactivated form of Cannabidiol. The activation of the Cannabinoids, the loss of the Carboxyl Acid, happens by heat and time. The process is called decarboxylation.

---

The acid attached to the Cannabinoids changes the way they interact with our Endocannabinoid System. When a THC molecule interacts with an Endocannabinoid receptor, it fits like a key to unlock it; the acid group attached to a THCA molecule prevents it from completing this action, prohibiting the intoxicating effects of THC. The acid attached also make them water soluble, interacting differently with your body than activated Cannabinoids which are fat soluble. (8)

---

Not as much is known about the medical benefits of Cannabinoid Acids and I have heard one expert, at a seminar for Veterinarians, say that their use is a little gimmicky. But I know two things, there is research showing medical benefits of Cannabinoid Acids and every creature’s Endocannabinoid System is unique to them. Studies indicate that THCA displays anti-inflammatory, anti-emetic, and neuroprotective properties. Research also shows that it helps with insomnia and appetite. (9, 10, 11, 12) There is less research regarding CBDA, yet it has shown potential therapeutic value in treating certain cancers. A recent study showed that CBDA inhibited the development of aggressive breast cancer cells. It also displays anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and anti-nausea properties. (13, 14, 15, 16)

---

Dr. Samantha Miller, President and Chief Scientist of Pure Analytics, LLC and Green Flower Media class presenter, states that while a patient might notice more immediate medical benefits of activated Cannabinoids, it might take patients several weeks to notice benefits from the raw forms of the Cannabinoids.

---

There are more Cannabinoid Acids that have medical benefits, however; the industry has not developed products for them yet.

---

Other Notable Observations

---

Napoleon's use of daily use Cannabinoids have led to some other notable observations. An accurate description of Napoleon before Cannabis would have been aloof. Napoleon was never concerned about our schedules, sometimes taking us on a 45 minute walk with no poop. NO POOP! We can't leave him for the day if he doesn't do his business before hand. After using CBD orally two times a day, we noticed that he became more regular in his bowel movements, so much so that we know exactly when he will have to evacuate his bowels. Besides the improved bowel movement schedule, we have also noticed an 'improved mental clarity'. Always being a happy dog, it seems Cannabis has uplifted his demeanor and has bonded him to us even more, which we didn't think was possible. Lastly, though his eyes have become a little cloudy with age this past year, we believe that his vision improved with Cannabis. Before Cannabinoids, I could toss a toy in the air and he could catch it 1 time out of a 1000 but after, he definitely improved his catching ability.

---

Journaling Your Pet's Experience

Journaling your pet's Cannabis journey will allow you to stay more connected and focused on your family member's health. It also allows you to notice nuances, small changes in your animal's behavior or demeanor, that you might not have otherwise noticed on a day-to-day basis. Every creature's Endocannabinoid System is unique and a journal helps pin-point what worked or is working or what is not doing the trick. Here is a journal template for you to download and use, Medical Cannabis Journal Template.

References

---

(1) Vincenzo Miragliotta, Pier Luca Ricci, Francesco Albanese, Andrea Pirone, Danika Tognotti, Francesca Abramo; Cannabinoid Receptor Types 1 and 2 and Peroxisome Proliferator‐Activated Receptor‐α: Distribution in the Skin of Clinically Healthy Cats and Cats with Hypersensitivity Dermatitis; Veterinary Dermatology; Volume29, Issue 4, August 2018 Pages 316-e111 — Study

---

(2) Michael J. Caterina; TRP Channel Cannabinoid Receptors in Skin Sensation, Homeostasis, and Inflammation; ACS Neuroscience, 2014, 5, 1107−1116 — Study

---

(3) Attila Gábor Szöllősi, Nikolett Vasas, Ágnes Angyal, Kornél Kistamás, Péter Pál Nánási, Johanna Mihály, Gabriella Béke, Erika Herczeg-Lisztes, Andrea Szegedi, Naoki Kawada, Takashi Yanagida, Takahiro Mori, Lajos Kemény, TamásBíró; Activation of TRPV3 Regulates Inflammatory Actions of Human Epidermal Keratinocytes ; Journal of Investigative Dermatology, Volume 138, Issue 2, February 2018, Pages 365-374 — Study

---

(4) Stefania Petrosino, Roberta Verde, Massimo Vaia, Marco Allarà, Teresa Iuvone and Vincenzo Di Marzo; Anti-inflammatory Properties of Cannabidiol, a Nonpsychotropic Cannabinoid, in Experimental Allergic Contact Dermatitis; Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics June 2018, 365 (3) 652-663 — Study

---

(5) Jessica Freundt-Revilla, Kristel Kegler, Wolfgang Baumgärtner, Andrea Tipold: Spatial Distribution of Cannabinoid Receptor Type 1 (CB1) in Normal Canine Central and Peripheral Nervous System; PLOS One, Publishes July 10, 2017 — Study

---

(6) Jane E. Lauckner, Jill B. Jensen, Huei-Ying Chen, Hui-Chen Lu, Bertil Hille, and Ken Mackie; GPR55 is a Cannabinoid Receptor That increases Intracellular Calcium and Inhibits M Current; PNAS February 19, 2008 vol. 105, no. 7, 2699–2704 — Study

---

(7) Lauri-Jo Gamble, Jordyn M. Boesch, Christopher W. Frye, Wayne S. Schwark, Sabine Mann, Lisa Wolfe, Holly Brown, Erin S. Berthelsen and Joseph J. Wakshlag; Pharmacokinetics, Safety and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment in Osteoarthritic Dogs; Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 23 July 2018 — Study

---

(8) Dr. Adam Richardson; The Entourage Effect: Chemical Teamwork or Second Hand Coolness?; Women Grow LA, April 2018 — Presentation

---

(9) Lucia Renee Ruhaak, Jenny Felth, Pernilla Christina Karlsson, Joseph James Rafter, Robert Verpoorte, Lars Bohlin; Evaluation of the Cyclooxygenase Inhibiting Effects of Six Major Cannabinoids Isolated from Cannabis sativa; J-STAGE home/Biological and Pharmaceutical ... / Volume 34 (2011) Issue 5

---

(10) Rock EM1, Kopstick RL, Limebeer CL, Parker LA.; Tetrahydrocannabinolic acid reduces nausea-induced conditioned gaping in rats and vomiting in Suncus murinusBritish Journal of Pharmacology, 2013 Oct;170(3):641-8. doi: 10.1111/bph.12316. — Study

---

(11) Moldzio R1, Pacher T, Krewenka C, Kranner B, Novak J, Duvigneau JC, Rausch WD.; Effects of cannabinoids Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinolic acid and cannabidiol in MPP+ affected murine mesencephalic cultures; Phytomedicine, Volume 19, Issues 8–9, 15 June 2012, Pages 819-824 — Study

---

(12) P. B. Baker, B. J. Taylor, T. A. Gough; The tetrahydrocannabinol and tetrahydrocannabinolic acid content of cannabis products; Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, Volume 33, Issue 1, September 1981, Pages 369-372 — Study

---

(13) Takeda S, Himeno T, Kakizoe K, Okazaki H, Okada T, Watanabe K, Aramaki H; Cannabidiolic acid-mediated selective down-regulation of c-fos in highly aggressive breast cancer MDA-MB-231 cells: possible involvement of its down-regulation in the abrogation of aggressiveness Journal of Natural Medicine, (2017) 71: 286. DOI: 10.1007/s11418-016-1030-0 — Study

---

(14) Shuso Takeda, Koichiro Misawa, Ikuo Yamamoto and Kazuhito Watanabe; Cannabidiolic Acid as a Selective Cyclooxygenase-2 Inhibitory Component in Cannabis; Drug Metabolism and Disposition September 1, 2008, 36 (9) 1917-1921; — Study

---

(15) HAMPSON, A. J., GRIMALDI, M. , LOLIC, M. , WINK, D. , ROSENTHAL, R. and AXELROD, J. (2000), Neuroprotective Antioxidants from Marijuana; Neuroprotective Antioxidants from Marijuanaa. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 899: 274-282. doi:10.1111/j.1749-6632.2000.tb06193.x — Study

---

(16) Bolognini D, Rock EM, Cluny NL, et al. Cannabidiolic acid prevents vomiting in Suncus murinus and nausea-induced behaviour in rats by enhancing 5-HT1A receptor activation.; Br J Pharmacol. 2013;168(6):1456-70. — Study

---

(17) Lee, Martin, A "The Discovery of the Endocannabinoid System" O’Shaughnessy’, 2012 - Link