Apoquel Alternatives – Can CBD Replace Apoquel for Dogs?
Looking to relieve your dog’s itching, scratching, redness, and rashes, but hoping for a natural alternative to Apoquel for dog allergies? If your dog suffers from allergies and you want to avoid the side effects of Apoquel, CBD oil for dogs with allergies might be the solution you’re looking for.
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Why CBD vs Apoquel for dogs?
Allergies and the uncomfortable symptoms they cause are some of the most common problems facing pet parents today. It’s often hard to pinpoint the cause of the itching and scratching and the last thing we want to see is our pets suffer. That’s why pet parents everywhere are running to their veterinarian for help.
And what do these vets prescribe? Apoquel. This powerful pharmaceutical boasts the ability to alleviate allergy symptoms in as little as a few hours and get your dog back to feeling normal.
Here at CBD DOG Health, we always believe in finding the root cause of an issue, to see if we can get rid of it or find a more natural way to relieve the symptoms. Although Apoquel is fast acting and treats surface level symptoms, it does not get to the root of the problem.
In contrast, CBD from the cannabis plant has well known anti-inflammatory benefits as well as the ability to encourage communication in the body’s various systems. Many pet owners are searching for natural remedies for dog allergies, and CBD for dogs with allergies is becoming a popular choice. These characteristics, as well as many of the other associated benefits, make cannabis medicine a promising Apoquel alternative in the fight against pet allergies and the symptoms they cause.
Why Is Apoquel Prescribed in the first place?
The most common use of Apoquel is in the treatment of Pruritus. Pruritus is the medical term for itchiness. It’s simply the uncomfortable sensation that makes your dog want to scratch. This feeling may be caused by environmental allergens, parasites, infections, food sensitivities, or chemical irritations such as fertilizers, fragrances or flea medications. Apoquel is often recommended for dogs with skin allergies, but many pet parents are concerned about the potential side effects of Apoquel for dogs.
The last thing we want is to see our dog or cat in a state of discomfort but for many, the battle with pruritus is lifelong. We all know how awful it feels to be itchy for prolonged periods of time, and this constant discomfort has even been linked to behavioral problems in dogs. When our dogs are in a state of prolonged stress, it makes sense that eventually their mental health would suffer and begin to affect their behavior. No wonder pet parents are eager to find a solution to their pet’s chronic itching. While Apoquel can provide quick relief from itching, many are turning to CBD for dog skin allergies as a safer, long-term solution.
How Does Apoquel Work?
Apoquel is just the latest drug to gain favor among veterinarians in the attempt to curb an ever growing trend of allergic dogs. Before Apoquel came along, vets most often prescribed steroids or drugs like cyclosporine, a chemical originally developed to stop organ transplant rejection in humans.
All you have to do is look at the ways Apoquel stops the itch to know that you’re in for trouble down the road. You may be treating one symptom in exchange for unwittingly exposing your pet to all sorts of opportunistic diseases and infections.
That’s because Apoquel functions by suppressing your pet’s immune system in order to mute the symptoms of an allergic reaction. It does not cure the allergy.
Understanding Apoquel: Benefits and Risks
Understanding how Apoquel works can help you make an informed decision when considering alternatives like CBD for dog allergies. Apoquel is an immune suppressant drug, in the JAK inhibitor class. This means it works to inhibit the function of JAK compounds. JAK stands for Janus Kinase. It is a signaling compound used by cells to communicate with each other and direct immune function.
Some of the known functions of JAK compounds:
- Destroying and preventing tumor growth
- Forming red and white blood cells
- Controlling inflammation
- Signaling new cell growth
- Ensuring proper function of immune cells (B-cells and T-cells)
By turning off the function of the JAK receptors, Apoquel effectively powers down the immune system throughout the body. This greatly reduces our pet’s natural defenses against disease and chronic illness. This leaves them vulnerable to ailments they might naturally have avoided. It’s no wonder pets using Apoquel for extended periods of time start to have major problems. By knowing the immune-suppressing function of Apoquel, it becomes clear why many are exploring CBD oil for dogs as a safer alternative.
Why Do We Need An Apoquel Alternative?
The main problem with Apoquel is if you want to keep the symptoms at bay, you have no choice but to continue medicating your pet with this drug indefinitely. Unfortunately, the longer your pet is on an immunosuppressive drug, the higher the likelihood is that they will develop serious side effects and health conditions as a result. In contrast, natural remedies like CBD oil for dogs with allergies not only alleviate symptoms but also support overall immune health without the harmful side effects.
In one long term study published by Apoquel’s manufacturer Zoetis, they studied 247 dogs over the course of two years. Of those 247 dogs, they removed 26 dogs from the study for one reason or another and 18 were euthanized. Long-term use of Apoquel can lead to serious health issues, which is why many pet owners prefer natural remedies like CBD for managing dog allergies.
Apoquel Side Effects
The most common side effects were:
- UTI or Cystitis – Bacterial infection of the urinary tract, affected 11.3% of test subjects
- Otitis – Bacterial infection of the ear canal, affected 9.3% of test subjects
- Pyoderma – Bacterial infection of the skin, Affected 9.3 % of test subjects
- Vomiting – Chronic GI upset, affected 10.1% of test subjects
Do you see the trend?
Bacterial infections and poor gut health. The immune system is harbored primarily in our pet’s gut, making gut health a central pillar of proper immune function. When the immune system is suppressed, the gut is unable to properly deal with pathogens that cause infections throughout the body. The side effects of Apoquel in dogs include bacterial infections and chronic gastrointestinal issues, making CBD for dog allergies a preferable option for many.
The ironic thing is that many of the opportunistic infections caused by Apoquel lead to itchy ears or itchy skin! Isn’t that what we were trying to get rid of in the first place?
Apoquel & Neoplastic Growths and Cancer
In the above mentioned study by Zoetis, other common side effect of Apoquel was the formation of lumps, bumps, tumors and other cancerous growths.
The list of instances in Zoetis’ study where dogs developed neoplastic or cancerous conditions is long and extremely varied. Without the immune system policing cancerous cells and abnormal growth, dogs treated with Apoquel are at a much higher risk for cellular mutations and other cancerous conditions.
Here’s a sample of the reported neoplastic (cancerous) conditions during the two year trial.
- Mast Cell Tumor Grade 1
- Mast Cell Tumor Grade 2
- Anal sac adenocarcinoma
- Apocrine gland adenocarcinoma
- Low grade b-cell lymphoma
- Spindle cell sarcoma
- Primary malignant bone Neoplasia
- Splenic neoplasm
- Intracranial neoplasm
- Frontal sinus neoplasm
- Dermal pigmented viral plaques
Not listed are the numerous masses that did not receive a specific diagnosis during the study. Here is a note from the study:
“In addition to the known or suspected neoplasms, 47 dogs developed new dermal, epidermal or subcutaneous masses that did not have a specific diagnosis established.”
Remember, these experiments only included 247 dogs, so the proportions of pets that developed new dangerous conditions is unacceptable.
AND YET, the conclusion of the study stated:
“Improved the quality of life for dogs in this study?”
Clearly, these conclusions are skewed to downplay the seriousness of the conditions that can develop as a result of using this drug. This is not surprising since the company that makes the product is the same company that funds and oversees the testing. Luckily we are able to look at the facts presented in the document and see the truth about its effects.
Apoquel Alternative: Why Consider CBD as a Natural Alternative to Apoquel for Dog Allergies?
As an Apoquel alternative, CBD for dogs offers a natural way to manage allergy symptoms and improve overall health. CBD and the other compounds found in a full-spectrum hemp extract help to bring the body’s systems into homeostasis. That’s just a fancy way of describing a state of balance.
There are tons of cannabinoid receptors throughout the organs that control our pet’s immune systems. Instead of completely turning off the immune responses, as Apoquel does, CBD instead increases communication between cells in the immune system. This encourages a more moderate and targeted response to allergy symptoms. Many pet owners are choosing CBD oil for dog allergies as it supports the immune system and reduces inflammation without harmful side effects.
At CBD Dog Health, we designed the Ease tincture to specifically target allergies in pets. A great Apoquel alternative, Ease contains the essential oils of powerful medicinal herbs. Including frankincense and turmeric, whose anti-inflammatory and immune supportive properties work synergistically with CBD. Plus, our dogs love the taste.
Giving full disclosure, holistic pet care and natural plant medicine may not produce the instant gratification that Apoquel produces. Holistic medicine seeks to treat each animal as an individual with respect to the complexity of their specific needs.
The Benefits of CBD Oil for Dogs with Allergies
A full-spectrum hemp extract CBD oil offers a natural and effective solution for managing allergies in dogs. At the root of most allergy symptoms is inflammation, which is the body’s natural response to eliminate contaminants and toxins. While inflammation is intended to protect, chronic inflammation can lead to severe health issues such as cancer and degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. This is where CBD for dog allergies becomes essential. By reducing inflammation, CBD alleviates the discomfort of itching and pain, providing relief for your furry friend.
One of the key benefits of CBD oil is its ability to promote homeostasis, or balance, within the body. This “Goldilocks zone” of pet health ensures that all bodily systems are functioning optimally, neither overactive nor underactive. CBD achieves this by enhancing communication between the body’s various systems and moderating immune system functions. For example, CBD effectively moderates mast cells, which release pro-inflammatory chemicals like histamines and cytokines.
A recent study from Naples, Italy, highlights CBD’s ability to inhibit these chemicals, thus mitigating the symptoms of allergies. The researchers concluded that the endocannabinoid system plays a protective role in both acute and chronic inflammatory diseases, making CBD a promising alternative to Apoquel for dogs. If you’re seeking a natural remedy for dog allergies, CBD oil offers a safe, non-toxic solution that can provide significant relief without the side effects associated with pharmaceutical drugs like Apoquel.
CBD Side Effects in Dogs
In contrast to the dramatic and often life-threatening side effects of pharmaceutical drugs like Apoquel, full-spectrum hemp extract is extremely safe for both short and long term use. For those seeking a natural remedy for dog allergies, CBD oil offers benefits with minimal side effects.
The side effects of CBD in dogs are generally mild and temporary, making it a safer choice compared to the long-term risks associated with Apoquel. In most cases, the worst side effects are mild diarrhea or lethargy during the beginning phase of the treatment. There are also plenty of great herbal remedies to support these symptoms, and as the body gets used to a new dietary supplement, these occurrences fade away.
Can I Give My Dog Apoquel and CBD Oil Together?
Not only does a full-spectrum hemp extract offer supportive and effective relief from allergies and their symptoms, but many of its healing properties also produce the opposite effect of Apoquel’s side effects.
Can I Give My Dog Benadryl instead of Apoquel?
Some pet parents turn to Benadryl for dog allergies as a quick fix for their dog’s allergy symptoms, thinking it might be a better alternative to Apoquel. However, similar to Apoquel, Benadryl only masks the symptoms rather than addressing the root cause of the allergies. Benadryl, an over-the-counter antihistamine, works by blocking histamine activity, which can temporarily relieve itching, sneezing, and other allergic reactions. While this may provide short-term comfort, it doesn’t solve the underlying issue causing your pets allergies.
Moreover, Benadryl side effects in dogs can include excessive drowsiness, dry mouth, urinary retention, rapid breathing, and increased heart rate. In rare cases, it can also cause diarrhea, vomiting, and changes in appetite. These side effects, coupled with the fact that Benadryl is not FDA-approved for veterinary use, make it less than ideal for long-term allergy management in dogs.
On the other hand, CBD for dog allergies offers a more holistic approach. Unlike Benadryl and Apoquel, which suppress the immune response, CBD works to balance the body’s systems and improve overall immune function. Full-spectrum hemp extract, rich in CBD, reduces inflammation and enhances communication between immune cells, addressing the root cause of allergies and providing a safer, more effective solution for long-term allergy relief.
At CBD Dog Health, our EASE tincture combines CBD with anti-inflammatory ingredients like frankincense and turmeric to support your dog’s health naturally, without the adverse side effects associated with conventional medications.
Switching to A Natural Apoquel Alternative
I’m not here to tell you that dealing with allergies is as easy as switching from one product to another. That’s kind of the problem with drugs like Apoquel. Sure, it’s a quick fix to stop the scratching. However, the long term effects of disabling your pet’s natural defenses can be very serious.
Transitioning from Apoquel to CBD for dog allergies can be smooth with the guidance of a holistic veterinarian or medical cannabis professional. When switching to a natural alternative for dog allergies, like CBD oil, it’s important to monitor your pet’s response and adjust the dosage as needed.
Aside from using CBD as an Apoquel alternative, to support a healthy immune response, there is a lot you can do to alleviate your pet’s allergies naturally. Consider sensitivities to particular foods or chemicals in their environment. In addition, look for ways to encourage the proper functioning of the body’s natural immune responses. In other words, there is so much that goes into the proper functioning of our pet’s body and their immune system. We recommend a strategic approach, not a quick fix.
