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Is CBD Safe for Pets? VETCBD’s First Veterinary Scholarship Aims to Expand Education

VETCBD is one of the world’s first cannabis companies aimed solely towards pet owners and their canine companions. The company has developed the first-of-its-kind scholarship program for veterinary students to raise awareness and dispel the stigma associated with cannabis and veterinary care. The VETCBD Memorial Stipend provides six veterinary students with a $1,000 scholarship toward their tuition.

While it is unlawful to prescribe cannabis to dogs at the federal level, California recently passed a bill that allows certified veterinarians to suggest CBD to pets. And, while cannabis has traditionally been connected with the medical business, few have related it with veterinary science—until now. The scholarship program also seeks to promote awareness and educate the public about the promising results made between pets and cannibas plants. “Because cannabis has been so heavily stigmatized in the veterinary space, we’re doing everything we can to change that. One of the ways we want to do that is to say, this scholarship comes from cannabis sales,” Dr. Tim Shu, found of VETCBD explained.

View the full article written by Taylor Engle for MedMen

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CBD Dog Health and Green Juju Team Up to Educate Pet Owners on Holistic Healing

CBD Dog Health and Green Juju are partnering to educate more pet owners and veterinarians on the benefits of plant food and medicine. The first stop of the Heroes of Holistic Healing educational tour will be at the AHVMA Annual Conference & Exhibition, an educa

tional event for holistic veterinarians. Some of the topics covered will be the importance of a fresh, biologically appropriate diet, the health benefits of medicinal plants and mushrooms and integrating fresh food into a pet’s diet.

View the full article from Pet Product News

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Everything You Need to Know About CBD for Dogs

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    There are many instances when a dog has fallen ill, is in pain or just not being themselves and you don’t necessarily want to opt for standard western medicine. Let’s face it, western medicine (i.e prescription medication) can have many side effects and it can be difficult to weigh the side effects against the ailment it’s supposed to help. Many dog owners turn to more holistic approaches to help their canine friends and a popular form of that is CBD for dogs.

    Dogs owners have been on a CBD frenzy since the United States approved CBD for human consumption in 2018. A law enacted in 2018 reclassified CBD as a Schedule 1 substance under the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and It’s no longer a restricted drug. 

    marijuana leaves

    What is CBD?

    Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical molecule present in both humans and animals that is part of the endocannabinoid system. Non-psychoactive cannabinoid produced from cannabis or hemp. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) gives you a “high,” while CBD doesn’t. In order to not have THC, CBD products are derived from hemp and not from marijuana. The majority of CBD products do not contain THC and if they do, they are purchased from a cannabis dispensary.

    How Does CBD Help Dogs?

    Some research and anecdotal data suggest that CBD may be useful in treating diseases such as anxiety, pain, and cancer. Pet owners are intrigued by the fact that these diseases may be treated naturally using CBD-based pet solutions. Other ailments that CBD can help include:

    • ​​Anxiety and stress
    • Arthritis & joint pain
    • Symptoms from cancer
    • Chronic inflammation
    • Moderate to severe pain
    • Digestion problems 
    • Nausea

    Some dog owners say that it can also be used to treat epileptic seizures, although further research is needed to establish this claim for sure. Consult your veterinarian before beginning any therapy for this or any other stated benefit to ensure that CBD is safe for your dog before beginning any treatment.

    Is CBD Safe for Dogs?

    Colorado State University conducted a small research study that showed that CBD was well tolerated by healthy dogs, with the exception of moderate diarrhea and slightly increased blood ALP (liver enzyme) concentrations. Scientists believe that further research is needed to establish whether CBD has any long-term impact on dogs’ livers, although they detected no acute danger to the livers of dogs.

    The advantages of CBD usage in dogs have also been reported by pet parents on internet forums, social media, and other platforms. As far as we know, there have not been any severe, adverse effects. Remember that just because a product is available for purchase does not mean it is regarded as safe or healthy for dogs.

    As of yet, the FDA has not authorized any CBD products for use in animals, either as a medicine or as an ingredient in the food. 

    senior dog getting cbd oil

    Are There Any Side Effects of CBD for Dogs?

    When it comes to dog CBD consumption, there are no scientific studies to back up the potential adverse effects based on how CBD affects people. Be cautious to follow the recommended dosage to avoid any unwanted side effects. 

    • Drowsiness: CBD has been used to alleviate anxiety in dogs by their owners. This is due to CBD’s sedative properties, which might make you feel sleepy if you take larger amounts.
    • Dry mouth: CBD has been found to reduce saliva production. The result would be increased thirst in dogs. 
    • Low Blood Pressure: CBD has been shown to temporarily lower blood pressure at high dosages. There may be a transient sense of light-headedness, even if the decrease is modest. 

    How Do I Know Which CBD Products to Buy?

    Not all CBD is made equal! There are multiple things to ask yourself prior to purchasing a CBD product for your dog. Since it isn’t FDA regulated, it’s up to the consumer to do their research. Here’s what to check for:

    1. Check if it’s organic since higher-quality CBD products use CBD that’s been derived from toxin-free hemp or cannabis plants.
    2. Most companies will run independent studies on their products to be able to provide a certificate of analysis (COA). Microbiology, pesticide, mycotoxin, residual solvent, heavy metals, and more may all be tested during the process.
    3. While most companies actually use safe methods to process their CBD, which includes carbon dioxide and cold press extraction, some companies opt for cheaper methods. These cheaper methods usually involve the use of different toxic solvents like propane, hexane and butane, in order to extract THC from the plant.
    4. Every product should be tested for its THC content. There are certain products that contain greater amounts of THC, which might be hazardous to your pet. Look for items with a THC content of less than 0.3%. 
    5. A full-spectrum CBD oil is recommended for pets. This is far superior to CBD isolate.. When used in conjunction with CBD oil, full-spectrum CBD oil contains trace quantities of additional useful cannabinoids that help to enhance the effects of CBD oil. When it comes to CBD oil for dogs, most doctors suggest full-spectrum oil rather than CBD isolate.

    Can a Veterinarian Prescribe CBD?

    Veterinarians in the U.S are not allowed to prescribe CBD products and are also not allowed to inform their customers about purchasing CBD. They are allowed to discuss the risks and benefits of CBD if you are creating your own treatment plan using CBD products. It’s suggested to speak to a vet who has experience and knowledge about CBD before giving it to your pet.

    corgi recieving cbd drops

    How Much CBD Can a Dog Have?

    Despite the fact that there are some topical therapies, CBD oil is generally delivered orally to dogs, and the right amount is critical to its effectiveness. It’s important to remember that the key to success with any medicine is the dosage.

    A dosage of 2 to 8 milligrams per kilogram of body weight twice day has been used in studies on CBD for dogs with arthritis or seizures, with most publications erring on the lower side of that range.

    According to research, this dose has been proven to be safe and moderately helpful for the specific disorders researched (arthritis and seizures). We still need to perform more studies to determine what doses of CBD are needed to treat different diseases. Many CBD products contain very little, if any, CBD, which makes it difficult to appropriately dose dogs.

    Cannabidiol product Epidiolex is the only FDA-approved drug for epilepsy in dogs and a veterinarian could potentially prescribe it, but it would likely be prohibitively expensive. Due to the fact that this product has FDA approval, the CBD content will be correct, unlike many other CBD products on the market today.

    What’s the Best Form of CBD?

    CBD for dogs started out as simple oils but with the market expanding, there are many different types of CBD products available. Some of these include CBD treats, CBD-infused broth, and so much more. But which is the best and most effective? 

    CBD oils in bottles with droppers are the easiest way to give the proper dosage and it can be put on treats, food or straight into the dog’s mouth. The strength and terpene content of oils will vary. Broad-spectrum CBD oil may be your best choice because it includes the most natural plant components that can increase efficacy. Consider using Coconut Oil with CBD if your dog is picky about what they eat since some CBD oil products have a “grassy” flavor. Because it is so delectable, most dogs will eat it on its own or mixed into their food and treats. As an alternative, the drug can be administered directly to the dog’s ears, where it is absorbed transdermally. 

    CBD in other forms is still effective! Don’t fret over that. Brands like Dope Dog and Innovet have created effective CBD treats that are easy to give to your dog. Dosage may vary so be sure to check the packaging for the correct dosage.

    Recap

    CBD can be a helpful, natural way to help pets overcome numerous ailments and illnesses such as anxiety, joint pain, and cancer symptoms. It is not FDA regulated yet so it’s up to the consumer to do research before purchasing a product as they are not all made equal. There also hasn’t been enough research done yet to be able to make fortified claims on the effectiveness of CBD nor can veterinarians prescribe it nor suggest it.

    The dosage of CBD varies per product and per dog, usually based on their size in pounds. If you aren’t sure of the dosage, the company may be able to help figure it out. CBD also comes in varied forms such as oils and treats. It may take some experimenting to figure out which is best for your dog and lifestyle, although CBD oils are usually easier for dosage. While a vet cannot suggest it, it is suggested that you ask them if it would be safe for your dog. Always consult your veterinarian before starting a treatment, holistic or not. You can discover CBD products in our product directory and find which one is best for you!

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    Suzie’s CBD Treats Partners With Best Friends Animal Society

    DENVER, June 14, 2021 — Suzie’s CBD Treats, manufacturer of popular USDA organic CBD pet products, announces their partnership with Best Friends Animal Society this month.

    Best Friends is leading the no-kill movement by running lifesaving community programs for dogs and cats, providing support and training for animal shelters and rescue groups, and mobilizing community members on behalf of pets in need across the country.

    Suzie's x BFAS partnership and new Peanut Butter Treats with collaborative artwork

    To celebrate this partnership, Suzie’s has created an entirely new flavor with Best Friend’s sanctuary-inspired artwork, by Suzie’s staff member KT Cavanaugh. These special-release bags will contain 20 delicious peanut butter-flavored treats with 4 mg of full-spectrum CBD each, for $19.95.

    “Suzie’s is so thrilled to support an organization that aligns with our most important values,” said Suzie’s President, Caleb Gilmore. “We are so grateful that our customer’s support allows us to contribute to organizations like Best Friends Animal Society.

    This new product is now available for purchase on www.SuziesPetTreats.com, or at independent retailers across the country.

    Suzie’s is beyond proud to partner with Best Friends and help Save Them All.® Learn more about BFAS and their mission at their website, https://bestfriends.org.

    Media Contacts:

    KT Cavanaugh: (720)576-8151                                         

    KT@SuziesPetTreats.com

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    Suzie’s x BFAS
    Suzie’s x BFAS partnership and new Peanut Butter Treats with collaborative artwork

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    Pets and the Pandemic: Separation Anxiety

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      It’s no secret that there has been a huge surge in pet adoptions and purchases during the pandemic as people are home more, get lonely, and want the company of a pet companion. A survey by Rover showed that 93% of people who got a “pandemic pet felt that their mental and/or physical well-being improved. The result? An epidemic of pets with separation anxiety. The amount of adoptions has been so great that certain animal shelters started running out of animals! Here are the stats from that same Rover survey:

      • Of the people who adopted in the last year, 53% brought home a dog, 32% a cat, and 14% both a dog and cat.
      • 64% of pet parents adopted (40% from a rescue or nonprofit organization and 24% from another family).
      • 26% of pet parents purchased their cat or dog from a breeder
      sir Patrick Stewart and wife with puppies
      Photo Credit: Charlie Nunn Photography

      Unfortunately, since everyone has been home so often, our pets have gotten used to that. They have gotten used to us working from home 5 days a week and barely leaving the house. Especially in young puppies, this behavior can create separation anxiety for dogs. Separation anxiety is the anxiety or panic an animal feels when separated from their human. This could happen immediately after separation or after a few hours. Rover stated that: 

      • Nearly half of those surveyed (40%) reported they were anxious about going back to in-person work and leaving their pet at home.
      • 20% of respondents have already left their pet during the day to go to work. 
      • 43% anticipate their first commute away from their pet to be between March-June 2021.
      • An outlier 9% think they will continue to work from home past October 2021.
      Brittany spaniel dog looking out a window with chin on window sill looking sad

      How Do I Know If My Pet Has Separation Anxiety?

      Some dogs don’t understand that when you leave, it means you’re coming back due to their cognitive abilities. The most frequent symptoms of separation anxiety are vocalizing, salivation, disruptive behavior, particularly near exits such as doors and windows, urination or defecation indoors/in undesirable places, loss of appetite while alone, self-trauma such as licking or chewing when alone, and attempted or active escapes. Action such as attempting to escape can be very dangerous and result in injury. Please note that this applies to any dog that may have separation anxiety, not just “pandemic pets”.

      boston terrier detroys door

      How Can I Prepare My Pets? 

      After months up to a year of your new dog being by your side, how do you ensure they don’t completely destroy your home when you’re at work or continuously cry and howl?  To start, dogs, in general, need both physical and mental stimulation in order to tire themselves out. This is the first step when it comes to making sure your pet will be fine when home alone. Before leaving, take them for a long walk or play fetch in the backyard. Provide them enrichment puzzles or something like a frozen Kong filled with peanut butter to keep them occupied. Crate training also gives your pets a safe space while you are away while also preventing them from destruction or attempts to escape. 

      dog playing with outward hound puzzle

      You will also want to teach your pet how to be on their own and not freak out when you’re not around and to not even need the tools mentioned above. This is called Independence Training which can be done on your own or with the help of a certified trainer. You can find a certified trainer through the Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers or Association of Professional Dog Trainers. Independence Training allows the pet to be at ease as the owner leaves or goes out, and to rest without having their owner around 24/7, plus hyper-attachment can be reduced as a result of this. When working on Independence Training, you will want to work on letting your dog nap or relax during the day in a certain location.

      You may also want to provide them a treat or chew in this desired location. Once the pet is comfortable, give positive reinforcement and continue on with what you are doing around the house to show they don’t need to be by your side. Depending on the severity of the separation anxiety, this may need to be done at a slower pace. The Downtime exercise lets your dog develop and sustain the habit of spending time alone. Another part of Independence Training is teaching “go to place” which is effective in teaching your pet to go to a desired location on their own without your assistance. 

      duck tolling retreiver on a dog bed under a blanket

      Also, don’t make it a big deal when you leave. This can just add to your dog’s anxiety and cause them to become hyperactive. Dog’s can become accustomed to certain sounds or actions that indicate you are leaving, which can cause distress. Work on making these actions not a big deal by doing things like picking up your keys throughout the day, putting your shoes on and not leaving the house, and continue on with your daily activities. The overall goal is to stop having a connection between departure signals and fear about being alone in the pet’s head. Practicing these strategies for pets that aren’t having separation anxiety will help prevent them from developing it in the future, which is particularly important given that our schedules might be dramatically altered.

      Once your dog is able to stay in a location, work on practice separations by putting them in place and leaving the room for short periods of time. Issue positive reinforcement when your dog stays and remains calm. Eventually, you can start building on longer separation that includes leaving the house. A pet camera is also a useful tool to ensure your dog is staying calm without you.

      Can I Give My Dog Anything Else to Help With Separation Anxiety?

      There are supplements that can help relieve stress and anxiety, both over-the-counter medication/supplements and veterinary prescribed medication. Your vet should be consulted before giving your dog any kind of medication or supplement. You can review product recommendations for stress relief here!

      dog being given a pill for separation anxiety

      Your veterinarian may also be able to give recommendations in cases of separation anxiety ranging from mild to severe.

      Find a board-certified behaviorist near you!

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      Relieving Firework Anxiety for Dogs

      dog laying under fireworks
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        4th of July is a time for BBQs, celebration, family and of course…fireworks which means firework anxiety for dogs. And of course, the fireworks often commence for weeks prior to the actual holiday. For the average person, fireworks are an exciting part of the holiday that we all look forward to. But for the majority of dog owners, it’s like hunkering down for the war. If you aren’t sure if your dog is scared of fireworks, here are some signs to look out for:

        • Trembling 
        • Shaking 
        • Hiding 
        • Seeking Comfort 
        • Destruction 
        • Urination 
        • Salivation

        So how can we make our pets be more comfortable during fireworks?

        Wrap Them Up 

        Consider investing in the all so mighty Thundershirt! There’s more to it than making your dog look stylish. The shirt creates a comforting pressure for the dog similar to a swaddle for a baby. Thundershirts have been proven to have a calming effect on over 80% of dogs including helping relieve firework anxiety.2

        husky in thundershirt
        Photo Credit: @lifeofhuskyluna

        If you don’t have a Thundershirt, you can make a make-shift one out of an elastic bandage! It’s simple and still effective. Check out the infographic below or this video that teaches you how to do the wrap!

        Photo Credit: Bark

        Check Out CBD Oil

        Since CBD for pets hit the markets, it’s become a go-to form of anxiety relief. CBD oil is available in drop form as well as treats, food toppers, tablets and more, but the most effective is drops/oil. Please note that all evidence of the effectiveness is strictly anecdotal and has not undergone any formal studies. For high quality CBD, check out VetCBD which can only be purchased at dispensaries or view our product directory for other quality CBD oils to help relieve firework anxiety.

        Photo Credit: VetCBD

        Consider Prescription Meds

        There’s no shame in asking your vet for anxiety medication for your dog! It can often be the ONLY thing that works for high anxiety dogs. Your vet should ALWAYS be consulted regarding medication, including anything over the counter.

        dog getting a red pill
        Photo Credit: Unknown

        Hunker Down at Home

        It’s time to hunker down and close the fort. Close up all the windows and doors in your house and play loud music or television to try and down out the noise. But make sure to do this BEFORE the fireworks start. Never keep dogs outdoors by themselves during fireworks as it’s one of the days when the most dogs end up in shelters after running away in fear. 

        dachshund laying in blankets
        Photo Credit: Jessica Johnston

        Escape the Noise

        If you’re able to, take advantage of the holiday and just get out of town. If you like camping, consider taking a tip to the mountains or desert where the fireworks can’t be heard. Although this can only really be suitable for the actual day of 4th of July and not the weeks leading up to it. If you can’t leave, you could always try finding a pet sitter who lives outside of town away from the fireworks.  

        woman and 2 dogs in a tent while camping
        Photo Credit: Non-stop dogwear
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