CBD for Pets During Natural Disasters: The Ultimate Guide for Pet Parents

When natural disasters strike, beloved pets are just as affected as humans are—sometimes even more so. Between loud noises, sudden changes, and chaotic environments, pets experience stress that turns them into bundles of anxiety. Thankfully, pet CBD products, along with some solid pet disaster preparedness, make all the difference in helping pets stay calm and safe when disaster hits.

Here’s everything pet parents need to know to keep their dogs, cats, and other furry family members feeling secure, even in the eye of the storm.

How Natural Disasters Affect Pet Wellness

For dogs, cats, and other animals, natural disasters like hurricanes, earthquakes, or wildfires are as confusing as they are frightening. Pets are incredibly sensitive to environmental changes, so the loud noises, flashing lights, and overall chaos of a natural disaster trigger fear and anxiety. Pet parents notice some of these behaviors during stressful situations:

• Excessive barking, whining, or meowing
• Pacing or refusing to settle
• Destructive actions, like chewing or scratching
• Hiding or attempting to escape

To manage these stress responses, consider holistic pet care solutions that work alongside other prep steps. Pet CBD products, for instance, are especially helpful for dogs and cats dealing with loud noises or separation anxiety.

Preparing A Pet’s Disaster Kit

To truly support pets, a disaster kit tailored to their needs is a no-brainer. Described below is a rundown of what every pet emergency kit includes.

• Two weeks’ worth of food and water in a waterproof container
• A copy of the pet’s medical records and necessary medications
• Proper identification (collar with ID tags and microchip information)
• Pet first aid kit with essentials like antiseptic wipes, a digital thermometer, and a leash
• Familiar items like a favorite blanket or toy to bring comfort during evacuation
• CBD oil or treats to help manage anxiety and stress

This emergency kit provides pet parents a way to meet their pet’s basic needs no matter where they are, while Paws and Claws pet CBD products offer comfort in a tasty treat. Keep these items easily accessible.

Crafting a Pet-Friendly Evacuation Plan

When it comes to an evacuation plan, make sure beloved pets are included in every step. Detailed planning and knowing the best evacuation routes ease the process when time is short. Some key considerations are listed below.

Locate pet-friendly shelters: Not all shelters accept pets, so have a list of places that do. Some local animal shelters offer temporary shelter for pets during evacuations.

Crate training provides a safe space for a pet, making travel and temporary sheltering much smoother.

Practice drills: Get a pet used to the evacuation process by running practice drills. Even a short car ride make a difference in reducing a pet’s anxiety when the time comes.

Does CBD Help Pets Cope During a Natural Disaster?

Natural disasters are a whirlwind of chaos and uncertainty, and pets feel it just as intensely. From loud noises to sudden changes in surroundings, the stress is overwhelming for animals. This is where CBD, a non-psychoactive compound from the cannabis plant, steps in to lend a hand. Unlike THC, which produces a “high,” CBD interacts with pets’ endocannabinoid systems (ECS), which are responsible for regulating mood, stress, and physical discomfort. Here’s why more pet parents are turning to CBD to help their furry friends cope during these high-stress situations.

CBD for Anxiety Relief

Loud noises like thunder, high winds, and sirens trigger panic in pets, leading to behaviors like hiding, shaking, and excessive vocalization. CBD plays a major role in soothing these heightened stress responses.

Studies show that CBD’s calming effects helps reduce anxiety in dogs and cats, making it easier for them to stay calm, even when the world outside is anything but. As published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science, “A single dose of CBD-free distillate can significantly reduce canine stress during separation and car travel, with varying effects depending on the measure and test,” (Hunt, A., et al., 2023). By naturally promoting a state of relaxation, CBD helps pets face the unexpected sights and sounds associated with natural disasters, turning panic into a more manageable calm.

CBD for Pain Management

For pets with mobility issues or joint pain, the physical demands of an evacuation add layers of difficulty. CBD is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate pain associated with arthritis, injury, or even stress-induced muscle tension. A study shows “CBD, especially liposomal formulations, shows potential in relieving canine osteoarthritis pain and increasing mobility without significant adverse effects,” (Verrico, C., et al., 2020). This is especially beneficial when pets must move or be carried quickly during a disaster.

Imagine having to quickly relocate an arthritic dog or a senior cat with joint pain—CBD makes their experience more comfortable, reducing their pain and helping them remain mobile when they need it most.

CBD for Nausea Control

Evacuations often mean car rides and many pets find themselves nauseous or stressed by the motion. When pets feel queasy, they refuse to eat, or even vomit, adding to their discomfort and anxiety. Here’s where CBD is incredibly helpful: it’s known for its ability to relieve nausea by indirectly activating somatodendritic 5HT1A receptors in the dorsal raphe nucleus (Parker, L., Rock, E., & Limebeer, C., 2011), which makes traveling smoother and less distressing for pets who don’t handle motion well.

This makes all the difference for pets prone to car sickness or digestive discomfort during trips, enabling them to arrive at a temporary shelter without feeling the effects of nausea.

Tip: Keep a small stash of CBD treats or oil in a pet’s emergency kit, so it is always ready when needed. Administer it before hitting the road to give it time to take effect.

Choosing the Right CBD Product for A Pet

Pet CBD products come in various forms, from oils and tinctures to treats. Some tips to ensure the right one is picked for a pet are listed below.

• Choose full-spectrum CBD derived from hemp. It contains under 0.3% THC, which makes it pet-safe.
• Look for third-party lab testing to verify quality and potency.
• Consider the pet’s preference: Some pets love CBD treats, while others do better with oil mixed with their food.

Whether it’s a tasty treat or a drop in their food bowl, CBD products make a difference during natural disasters by providing pets with a calming sense of well-being.

After the Disaster: Recovery and Continued Support for Pets

Once the storm has passed, some pets still feel its effects. Gradually reintroduce them to a safe, quiet space, and reestablish routines to help them feel secure again. To keep their recovery on track, note the things below.

• Stick to familiar schedules, which provide a sense of normalcy.
• If CBD was helpful during the event, consider using it temporarily to help a pet manage any lingering stress.
• Schedule a veterinary check-up to catch any underlying health concerns, and talk with the pet’s veterinarian about ongoing wellness support for a pet’s specific needs.

FAQs

How Long Does It Take for CBD To Work in Pets During a Natural Disaster?

CBD typically takes effect within 30 to 45 minutes in pets, depending on the method of administration. CBD oils are absorbed quickly especially if given via transmucosal administration (e.g. on the gums). They act faster than treats. For best results, give CBD before a stressful event, like an evacuation, so a pet is calm as things unfold.

Is CBD Safe for All Pets, Including Cats and Senior Dogs?

Generally, yes! CBD is well-tolerated by both dogs and cats, as well as senior pets with specific health needs like joint pain or anxiety. Always choose pet-specific CBD products that use low or non-detectable THC, and consult the pet’s veterinarian, especially for pets with underlying health conditions.

Is It Okay to Give CBD To Pets Along with Their Regular Medications?

In many cases, CBD is safely given alongside other medications, but it’s important to consult the pet’s veterinarian. They’ll assess any potential interactions between CBD and the pet’s specific medications, like pain relievers, anxiety meds, or anti-nausea drugs, to ensure everything works well together.

How Do I Know the Right Dose of CBD For a Pet During a Disaster?

The recommended dose usually depends on the pet’s weight and the specific product. Usually, 0.20 mg per pound of the pet’s body weight is a good starting point. Start with a small dose based on the product’s instructions, and adjust as needed. If unsure, the pet’s veterinarian offers dosing guidance tailored to a pet’s needs, especially for anxiety or pain during natural disasters.

What If a Pet Doesn’t Like CBD Oil or Treats?

If a pet isn’t a fan of CBD oils or treats, try mixing oil into their favorite food or using unflavored options that are easier to mask. Some pets respond well to CBD capsules or powders that blend well into meals. Just like with any supplement, finding the right form takes a bit of experimenting to see what they enjoy most.

Final Thoughts

Natural disasters are unpredictable, but pet parents plan ahead to keep pets safe and comfortable. An emergency kit stocked with food, water, and other CBD oil, along with a detailed evacuation plan, prepares pet parents and their pets for the unexpected.

In the end, the pet’s well-being during a crisis is about having the right resources, tools, and a solid plan in place. Equip your crisis kit bag furnished today!

References

• Hunt, A., Flint, H., Logan, D., & King, T. (2023). A single dose of cannabidiol (CBD) positively influences measures of stress in dogs during separation and car travel. Frontiers in Veterinary Science, 10. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1112604.
• Parker, L., Rock, E., & Limebeer, C. (2011). Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2010.01176.x.
• Verrico, C., Wesson, S., Konduri, V., Hofferek, C., Vazquez-Perez, J., Blair, E., Dunner, K., Salimpour, P., Decker, W., & Halpert, M. (2020). A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of daily cannabidiol for the treatment of canine osteoarthritis pain. Pain. https://doi.org/10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001896.