Forward by Jennifer Dixon MBA ERYT 500
Although I have only anecdotal evidence, I give 100% of the credit to the last 6 months of my first baby’s life to the supplementation of CBD. My first baby was a spaniel mix, her name was Belleza. She was seriously the most beautiful dog…ever… Later in life, she developed a tumor on her liver–it doesn’t matter what it was called, and at 10, I had the tumor, as much as we could, removed. I was told that it was a very aggressive growth and would likely take her life in 6 month. The vet said, she’d seen one dog live an additional 18 months.
Devastated by this news, I added in a retinue of natural supplements (mushrooms mostly), and continued to give her a super awesome diet. She lived until she was almost 15, 3.5 years after her death sentence. Because the tumor was on her liver, the liver was compromised which meant that typical pain killers were not an option for her. Towards the end, when I knew she was in pain, and she couldn’t take anything else, my youngest sister suggested I try CBD. She was helping to farm it on the west coast, and although I wasn’t sure about it, I would basically do anything for my girl, B.
This is before folks in Tennessee had the options that they do today, like here in our store, so I had to actually make my own pet supplement. Let me tell you, within 15 minutes of Belleza’s first “treatment” (we put the oil in a capsule and covered it in peanut butter), my dog went from laying around to jumping up and down like a puppy. She started eating again and definitely had an improved quality of life.
We continued to supplement Belleza’s diet with these homemade capsules and noticed nothing short of miraculous results in her activity levels, appetite, even her fur. However, in the end she ultimately did succumb to the fast growing growth on her tumor. I still cry when I think about my pretty girl, but for 15 years, that pup was by my side. She was made comfortable until the very end through this amazing supplement, CBD. It is because of my experience with Belleza and CBD that I decided to offer the products at the studio.
I truly believe in the power of this amazing plant and I am so thankful to be exposed to it, and that it is so easy to get today. If you have not tried it on yourself or your pup, what are you waiting for? It’s amazing, and with the varieties available today, there is sure to be a product that can fit your budget.
Now,for the Science… This article first appeared on MadeByHemp.
As we’ve discussed previously, humans have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) that regulates homeostatic functions of the body. Cannabidiol (CBD) is an effective wellness supplement because it interacts with the ECS to support these functions.
Research has found that the ECS is not exclusive to humans. Most vertebrates have an endocannabinoid system, including pets such as cats and dogs. This similarity has led to the conclusion that animals can benefit from taking CBD as well.
If you are interested in giving your pet CBD, there are a few guidelines to follow in order to provide the best for your companion. Here we answer the top questions you are likely to have regarding pets and CBD.
Is it legal/safe to give my pet CBD?
CBD for pets should be derived from hemp and not marijuana. Confusion often arises because CBD can be derived from both plants. While the CBD compound is the same in both hemp and marijuana, the additional compounds that are present in the extraction vary.
While both are cannabis plants, hemp and marijuana differ in their cultivation, application, and chemical makeup. The most significant difference between these two plants is the levels of THC, which is a psychoactive compound that creates a high. Marijuana is bred to have high levels of THC; hemp is bred to have low levels of THC. Products derived from hemp must legally contain less than 0.3% THC, which is a negligible amount that will not get your pet high.
CBD is a non-psychoactive substance that is safe to administer to pets. As long as CBD is properly sourced from hemp, it is legal in the United States.
Why should I give my pet CBD?
The research on CBD and pets is in the beginning stages. Currently, the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University is studying the effectiveness of cannabidiol in the treatment of epilepsy and osteoarthritis in dogs. Trials are still on going, the results are not yet available. Additionally, the School of Veterinary Medicine at University of California, Davis is surveying pet owners who give their pet cannabis to gather information and lead the way for future research.
CBD pet products are formulated to support general wellness. The endocannabinoid system is located throughout the nervous system; CBD interacts positively with this system to promote a general sense of calm. CBD is a natural solution that functions as a wellness supplement.
How much CBD should I give my pet?
Available in a tincture or treat, CBD can be accurately measured and easily administered. We suggest following the serving size provided by the manufacturer. It may take about two weeks of consistent use to see CBD build up in your pet’s system.
Finding a Reputable Source for CBD Pet Products
The safety of all pets is the number one priority. When it comes to CBD, safety begins with purchasing a high-quality product. There are a few criteria to keep in mind when deciding which CBD pet product to purchase.
First and foremost, the CBD product you give your pet should be formulated for their system. CBD products for humans could contain ingredients that cause digestive upset in pets. There are several CBD products that are specifically formulated for pets and contain ingredients that are both safe and beneficial to your pet’s system.
Determining a quality CBD product starts at the source. Hemp sourced from responsible farms will produce a quality product. Farms in Europe and the United States have a high standard for growing hemp; most reputable brands source from these locations. The method of extraction will also determine the quality of the hemp oil. The highest standard of extraction is CO2 extraction, which is the safest and cleanest method.
A certificate of analysis (COA) will confirm the amount of CBD and THC in a product. COAs verify the label accurately reflects what is in the product. Every manufacturer should provide an up-to-date COA to anyone that asks.
CBD can be a beneficial addition to your pet’s health routine. Finding a quality product is essential to providing the best for your companion. Here at Thrive Yoga and Wellness, we offer a few different options for you to grab this amazing supplement for your furry four legged friend where you can order online or order to have it ready for pick up after your next class. Let us help you make your furry friend’s life a little better.
Do you give your pets hemp oil? What kind of results do you see?