CBD for Pets
As a “hempreneur”, one of my most common conversations is about CBD and pets. Everyone wants to know how hemp extract – cannabidiol – can help their furry friends.
CBD works mostly the same for animals as it does for humans. And boy do they love it! Just ask my friend who took a job away from home for an entire summer and upon returning, found a rat infestation in her condo. They had partied in her absence ALL summer. Among other unfortunate damage, the rats had actually chewed through the rubber tops of her CBD Drops to get to the goods. True story.
CBD is a plant compound, called a cannabinoid, found in the cannabis plant. Unlike its more popular cousin THC, CBD does not produce any psychoactive effects which means there is no “high”.
Benefits of CBD
~ lower inflammation~ reduced anxiety~ pain reduction~ improved sense of wellbeing~ less nausea and better digestion~ enhanced sleep quality
Uses for Pets
~ during thunderstorms~ arthritis + spine degeneration~ soothing elderly pet discomfort~ fireworks~ hyperactivity
Everyone knows, has had, or has met an anxious dog or cat. Perhaps they are easily upset when left alone, during the 4th of July, or in the car. CBD may help to calm hyper or stressed pets. It’s beneficial for puppies and kittens as it supports cognitive development as well as senior pets with aging.
for all stages of life
Types of Products
Pet CBD products can be purchased in forms like tinctures added to food, biscuits and other chewables, capsules, and topicals. Hemp extract (CBD) has become so popular, it is frequently found at most veterinary clinics, health food stores, online, and in pet stores.
In fact, CBD for pets has become so common, 2/3 vets report their patients asking about it according to a 2019 survey by the Veterinary Information Network.
Dosage
General recommendations for pets range from 3-5mg per 10lbs body weight. It’s best to keep a log for at least the first two weeks to monitor effects and dial in the dosage. As with humans, side effects are rare and mild, however, start low and go slow. Reference product packaging for strength.
It is important to note that dogs in particular are more sensitive to the effects of THC than people due to physiological differences in the cerebellums and brain stems. Because of this, aim for products that have little to no THC.
As with people, all pets can respond differently to hemp/CBD.
BE CONSISTENT.
Keeping a journal of dosing amounts and times for the first two weeks is a great way to measure efficacy and dial in the dosage. It can take 4-6 weeks of consistent use to see full benefits.
A little about the Pet Drops by Sierra Juana…
I first made the Pet Drops for my dog Bonnie. She was always healthy but had some skin issues, lumps and bumps common in white boxers, and arthritis in her hips. I wanted to give her something natural that could support her quality of life as she aged.
My goal was to create a limited ingredient yet tasty supplement for pets that was easy to dose and use. The Pet Drops are pure US grown CBD + wild Alaskan salmon oil. I chose this fine oil because of its inherent ability to reduce inflammation + promote overall pet wellness.
Furthermore, according to the AKC (American Kennel Club),
“Fish oil is one of the best supplements to add to your dog’s diet. Fish oil supports your canine companion’s heart health, promotes a silky coat, reduces itchy and flaky skin, and can help relieve allergies and joint pain. It can even help strengthen their immune system and could help them fight canine cancer.”
I’m really proud of these drops. They assisted my Bonnie through her last days and now are helping my puppy Roxanne. Talk to your veterinarian and learn more here.
