A diagnosis of autoimmune disease in dogs can be difficult to understand at first. Autoimmune illness definition is a condition that occurs when the immune system, instead of protecting the body, turns against it and begins targeting healthy tissue. This mistaken response can lead to inflammation, pain, or even damage to organs. Though it may sound serious, many pets can still lead fulfilling lives with the right care. Natural approaches, combined with ongoing support, can go a long way in managing the symptoms for autoimmune diseases. With patience and proper guidance, your pet can continue to enjoy a good quality of life despite the diagnosis.

What is autoimmunity?

Autoimmunity is a condition where the immune system, which usually protects the body from harmful germs, mistakenly attacks healthy cells instead. This can cause inflammation, pain, and damage, leading to autoimmune diseases.

What causes Autoimmune Disease?

Autoimmune disease in dogs is an umbrella term that includes a variety of conditions, such as lupus, irritable bowel disease (IBD), Cushing's disease, Bullous Pemphigoid, Pemphigus complex, and many others. These diseases happen when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own healthy tissues, leading to inflammation and damage. There are several potential causes for autoimmune diseases in pets, including genetics, exposure to certain types of UV light, and even ticks. Some medications, like sulfa drugs used to treat infections such as urinary tract infections or respiratory issues, can also trigger autoimmune responses. Additionally, some veterinarians believe that over-vaccination might contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases, though this theory is still debated. Understanding the potential causes and triggers of autoimmune diseases can help pet owners manage and prevent complications for their furry friends.

What are the symptoms of Autoimmune Disease in Dogs?

Symptoms of autoimmune disease in dogs can show at any time, but typically start around age six or older. Depending on the type of autoimmune disease, symptoms may be local to the area affected or may be evident in the whole body. The symptoms also vary depending on the disease. However, there are a few common signs to look for that your dog may need to be tested for an autoimmune disease.

Common symptoms of autoimmune disease include:

• Increased thirst or urination

• Alopecia

• Ulcers on the face or feet

• Fever

• Anemia

• Thyroid issues

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Weakness

• Weight loss or anorexia

• Excessive bleeding

• Discoloration of the nose, skin, or eyes

How to check for autoimmune diseases?

Because the body is attacking itself, an autoimmune disease in dogs can cause multiple issues. For example, it can cause rheumatoid arthritis and inflammation of the joints. Lupus can cause issues in the skin, brain, and digestive system. The symptoms will vary, but they are all worsened by inflammation. Your holistic veterinarian may need to run a variety of tests, including blood tests and biopsies, to determine which autoimmune disease your pet has, and the cause.

How to Support Your Pet with Autoimmune Diseases Naturally

When it comes to managing autoimmune diseases in dogs, traditional treatments often involve medications like steroids that suppress the immune system. While these can help manage symptoms in the short term, they don't address the root cause of the problem. Many pet owners don't know that about 80% of the immune system is found in the gut. So, focusing on gut health is essential to truly support your pet's immune system.

One of the best changes you can make is to switch your pet's diet from kibble to a raw or freeze-dried food. Kibble, while convenient, doesn't offer the same nutritional benefits as raw food, which can help lower inflammation, a common issue for pets with autoimmune diseases. In addition to diet, adding digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and minerals can further support your pet's gut health and immune function.

CBD is another great natural option to help manage inflammation and ease the discomfort of autoimmune diseases. Although these conditions might not always be completely reversible, you can still make a big impact by controlling inflammation and preventing further damage, helping your pet stay comfortable and healthy over time.

Can CBD Help with Your Pet's Autoimmune Disease?

CBD, or cannabidiol, has shown promising results in helping manage autoimmune diseases in dogs, especially when it comes to reducing inflammation. Inflammation is a key factor in autoimmune diseases, as it can lead to permanent damage in the body. One of the ways CBD helps is by acting as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent, which can ease pain and prevent further harm.

A study looked into the effects of cannabinoids on dogs with osteoarthritis. This study found that dogs treated with CBD showed a significant reduction in pain and an increase in activity levels, with no side effects reported. The results were so positive that the study concluded CBD oil had real benefits for reducing pain in dogs, making it a safe option for pets suffering from chronic conditions.

Another study confirms that CBD is effective for managing both chronic and acute pain, making it a useful tool in treating autoimmune diseases. Cannabinoids, including CBD, work by reducing inflammation through several mechanisms. They help regulate immune responses, suppress harmful cytokine production, and even promote the creation of anti-inflammatory molecules in the body.

CBD also plays a role in regulating the immune system. It helps restore balance, or homeostasis, which is essential for pets with autoimmune diseases. By triggering certain receptors in the body, CBD can suppress overactive immune responses that lead to attacks on healthy tissues. Studies suggest that CBD can slow down the production of T-cells and prevent future autoimmune flare-ups. It also supports the body's ability to manage oxidative stress, which can reduce the damage caused by these immune attacks.

In short, CBD shows great potential in helping pets with autoimmune diseases by managing inflammation, boosting immune regulation, and promoting overall healing. As always, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best treatment plan for your pet.

How Much CBD Should I Give My Pet for Autoimmune Diseases?

When managing autoimmune diseases in dogs, it's important to find the right amount of CBD to help support their health. For pets with autoimmune conditions, we recommend starting with Bully Crew's full-spectrum hemp extract tincture. A good starting point is around 35-50 mg (1-2 ml) daily, though the exact dosage may vary depending on your pet's individual needs. You can adjust the amount as needed, as every pet may react differently to CBD. It's important to know that pets can't overdose on CBD, so it's safe to find the right balance for your furry friend.

If your pet is dealing with skin issues like lesions, sores, or other visible signs of autoimmune disease, applying Bully Crew CBD's topical salve one to two times a day can help soothe and support healing.

Keep in mind that if your pet is on medications that suppress their immune system, they might not experience the full benefits of CBD right away. It's always a good idea to talk to your holistic veterinarian about any medications your pet is on and whether it's safe to wean off steroids or other treatments to allow CBD to work effectively.

For more information on how Bully Crew CBD's full-spectrum hemp extract can support your pet's health, visit our website at [https://bullycrewcbd.com/].