Skin allergies in dogs are exceedingly common, and they cause a lot of discomfort for your pet. Most vets recommend Apoquel for various skin issues, but its long-term side effects have led people to look for a natural alternative to Apoquel.
Apoquel is an immunosuppressant drug prescribed for dogs aged 12 and above to control the underlying causes of itching skin.
Use of Apoquel
Apoquel is most commonly used for treating pruritus. It is the technical term describing the uncomfortable feeling that makes dogs want to itch. Pruritus may occur due to factors like:
• Food Sensitivities
• Environmental allergens
• Infections
• Parasites
• Chemical fragrances, fertilizers, pollen, or flea-related medications
Apart from treating allergies, Apoquel is used to treat food allergy, contact allergy, atopic dermatitis, and flea allergy in dogs.
Side Effects of Apoquel
Apoquel contains synthetic steroids and other prescription drugs that may harmfully impact your dog. The reason behind it is that the drug suppresses your dog’s immune system to control any symptoms related to allergies.
But, when you take your dog off Apoquel, the symptoms are no longer suppressed. And your dog again suffers from itching. If you want to control the itching symptoms, your pet will need this medication for an indefinite period.
Your dog might also suffer from other side effects such as:
• Vomiting
• Bone marrow suppression
• Increases cholesterol and lipase
• Diarrhea
• Ear infections
• Decreases globulins
Unfortunately, the longer your pet takes immunosuppressive medication, the higher the probability of developing severe side effects and affecting health conditions. If your dog experiences other medical symptoms or conditions, stop administering Apoquel for dogs and talk to your veterinarian immediately.
What Is CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that offers many potential benefits for dogs. It offers a therapeutic benefit for allergies, chronic pain, inflammation, anxiety and seizures in dogs.
In addition, CBD shows promise for conditions such as nausea caused by chemotherapy or the failure of conventional pharmaceuticals to work due to liver disease or digestive issues.
CBD is also tested for benefits relating to conditions such as glaucoma, heart disease and cancer.
CBD as A Natural Alternative to Apoquel
CBD’s pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties make them a very popular alternative to Apoquel. It can easily soothe your dog’s itchy skin. CBD and other compounds found in full-spectrum hemp extract are widely known for their ability to bring the body’s system into homeostasis.
CBD works with other compounds to regulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which activates CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties. All mammals, including cats and dogs, possess the ECS.
Not only does Cannabidiol (CBD) extract offer support and effective treatment for allergies and their associated symptoms, but several of its healing properties also produce the opposite impact of Apoquel’s side effects.
The dogs’ immune systems are controlled by tons of cannabinoid receptors throughout the organs. CBD enhances communication between cells in the immune system instead of entirely turning off the immune response. This helps in encouraging a more moderate and targeted response to allergy symptoms.
Furthermore, CBD has inflammatory properties that can treat atopic dermatitis. When your pets eat CBD products for dogs, it helps relieve the inflammation of the skin and promotes healing through good sleep patterns and calmness. Unlike Apoquel, these benefits are gained without harsh chemicals or potential side effects.
Is CBD Safe for Dogs?
Yes, CBD is entirely safe for dogs. As a natural alternative to Apoquel, there is no abuse or dependence potential for animals using CBD. Using this compound for dogs has proved useful for several medical conditions ranging from anxiety, arthritis, and nausea.
You can ask your veterinary doctor about CBD before administering it. This can help you understand its impact on your pet’s health.
