A novel study from the Universidad de las Palmas de Gran Canaria in Spain suggests that low doses of 1cp-LSD may offer a safe and effective treatment for anxiety in dogs, particularly separation anxiety. The research, published in Veterinary Research Communications, explored the use of this psychedelic drug to alleviate anxiety symptoms without causing adverse side effects.
The study centered on a 13-year-old dog named Lola, who suffered from intense separation anxiety, characterized by distress and destructive behaviors such as excessive barking. Lola was administered a low dose of 1cp-LSD and observed for over five hours, during which she was exposed to typical anxiety triggers, including her owners leaving her.
Observed Behavioral Changes
Two hours after receiving the 1cp-LSD, Lola exhibited a significant change in behavior. She appeared much calmer, even when subjected to anxiety-inducing situations. Unlike her usual reaction, she remained unaffected and did not display anxious behaviors such as barking. This calming effect suggests the potential of 1cp-LSD to mitigate anxiety symptoms in dogs.
Absence of Side Effects
A key finding of the study was the absence of any noticeable side effects in Lola. The dog did not experience any psychedelic effects, indicating that the treatment worked without altering her mental state in the way psychedelic drugs typically do in humans. Furthermore, Lola returned to her normal behavior after five hours, with no lasting harmful effects observed.
Implications for Canine Anxiety Treatment
These results open new avenues for treating anxiety in dogs. Traditional medications, such as antidepressants and benzodiazepines, are often not fully effective and can have adverse side effects. Given that nearly 20% of dogs, especially those with separation anxiety, suffer from anxiety, there is a pressing need for better treatment options without potential side effects.
This study suggests that low-dose 1cp-LSD could be a promising alternative. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and determine the optimal dosage and treatment protocols for different types of canine anxiety.
