Now that the summer season is in full swing, we dog owners need to take extra care to protect our beloved furry friends. During this time of year, we need to be more mindful of ticks and fleas, as well as making sure that our companions are hydrated as the temperatures continue to rise. Another potential threat to our dog’s wellbeing is fireworks, which, aside from making our canines nervous, can actually be damaging to their ears depending on the circumstances.
Basically, fireworks can be beautiful to us, but detrimental to your dog. So, this summer, it is good to be prepared with everything needed to keep your dog calm, such as giving them cannabidiol (CBD), while also protecting their ears.
Why Can Fireworks Be More Damaging Than You May Think?
Fireworks have been an American pastime for ages, and we all have fond memories of watching a beautiful fireworks display on the Fourth of July. Because of our positive association with them, we tend to overlook the fact that they can, in fact, be dangerous on rare occasions. The fact of the matter is that the volume of fireworks can reach 140 decibels, which can lead to serious ear damage including hearing loss or, at the very least, temporary ear pain.
Tinnitus can result from fireworks, which causes a ringing in the ear that may be short-lived or chronic depending on the extent of the damage. This is a condition in which the protective hairs within the ear canal become injured, which causes an inappropriate stimuli response characterized by a ringing sound that is not actually there. Pain can accompany this sensory sensation.
The potential for fireworks to do damage to your dog’s ears largely depends on how closely fireworks are going off. The further away the fireworks display from your home, the less likely damage is to occur. But, even if your municipality’s fireworks show is on the other side of town, we all know that our neighbors may light off their own fireworks, in a way that does not take into consideration the wellbeing of those around them.
How to Protect Your Dog’s Ears from Fireworks
It goes without saying that no dog owner wants their precious companion’s ears to be harmed when fireworks are going off. So, what can be done to protect them?
Well, one of the most proactive things that you can do is buy your dog earmuffs. There are earmuffs that are made especially for dogs, and while they are usually designed to protect dogs’ ears from cold weather, they can effectively dampen the impact of the sound of fireworks. If, for whatever reason, you can’t acquire earmuffs in time, you can try sticking cotton into your dog’s ears, being very careful not to place them in too deeply.
What Should You Do if You Suspect Your Dog’s Ears are in Pain or are Otherwise Damaged Due to Nearby Fireworks?
Answer: Take them to the veterinarian as soon as possible. Your veterinarian can determine whether or not damage has occurred and develop a treatment plan. Tinnitus is an incurable condition, but more minor forms of damage that cause pain rather than long-term effects on hearing may be treated with pain relievers.
CBD for Ear Pain in Dogs
Interestingly, as we learn more about CBD, we’re discovering that it may actually be useful for those dealing with ear pain caused by damage or exposure to loud noises. CBD is a cannabinoid, known more formally as cannabidiol, and it’s the main compound of the hemp plant. Cannabidiol like other cannabinoids has the ability to bind to cannabinoid receptors belonging to the endocannabinoid system, which are located in every system of the body.
Cannabinoid receptors are given the job of regulating the functions within their systems. Cannabinoid receptors exist in the inner ear, and when CBD binds to these receptors, regulatory actions can occur that allow the inner ear to overall function in a more efficient manner. That being said, early research has shown cannabidiol to be potentially helpful for tinnitus and general pain caused by loud noise exposure.
CBD is a nontoxic compound (below .3% THC) that can be administered to pets, and research has found that dogs can take it daily. Dogs, like humans, have an endocannabinoid system, which means that they can utilize the compound for the same purposes that we do.
How to Use CBD for a Dog Following a Nearby Fireworks Display
If you want to try giving cannabidiol to your dog specifically to help with ear pain, there are some especially important things to be aware of beforehand. Giving your dog CBD requires a carefully developed routine to ensure as much success as possible, as well as safety.
Talk to Your Veterinarian
First of all, you absolutely must speak to your vet prior to giving your dog any hemp product. Your vet knows what is best for your dog’s wellbeing and can consider whether or not cannabidiol is advisable based on their present state, medical history, and current medications. Remember, only they can provide medical advice, so you should never give CBD to a dog until after speaking to them. Also, if your canine is taking medications (some can interact with CBD, such as those that inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme), ask them for additional guidance.
Choose a Dog-Friendly Product
You can only give your dog a CBD product developed for canines, to ensure that your dog is consuming ingredients that are safe for them, and that they are receiving a dosage that is appropriate for their body weight. CBD products for humans may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs, like eucalyptus and tea tree.
Be Mindful of the Delivery Method and Strength
For this type of circumstance, an internal method should be administered rather than a topical one. We recommend either treats or a tincture, both of which are available at Chill Paws. Choose a milligram strength based on your vet’s recommendations. These formulas effectively cross the blood brain barrier to provide effects pertaining to the inner ear.
Daily Use is Best
CBD can be more effective if it’s administered daily, as this provides advanced support to their body’s endocannabinoid system. Consistency supplies the body with a daily dose of cannabinoids to be used as thoroughly throughout the body as needed.
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