Over the course of the past few years, CBD has been popping up in just about everything from bath bombs to bubbly water. The hemp-based cannabinoid’s growing list of benefits has helped CBD earn its spot as one of the most popular health and wellness supplements…and it isn’t just popular with humans. Did you know CBD has been reported to help pets as well? Our furry friends benefit from CBD just like us. Keep reading if you want to learn more about CBD for pets and how it can be incorporated into your BFF’s daily routine.

What is CBD?

First off, we should get to know a little more about CBD. CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the many natural compounds in hemp plants. These compounds, called cannabinoids, interact with the bodies endocannabinoid system to produce therapeutic effects. Unlike THC, another famous cannabinoid, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get your furry friends “high.” While we’re talking about THC, it seems important to mention that THC, when consumed in high doses, can be toxic to our furry friends.

How does CBD work?

Did you know all animals, with the exception of insects, have endocannabinoid systems? Yes, that means mussels have endocannabinoid systems. CBD works by interacting with our pet’s cannabinoid receptors which are part of their endocannabinoid system or ECS. The ECS is responsible for maintaining balance in the body as a response to certain triggers like inflammation, pain response, and stress.

What are the benefits of giving CBD to my pet?

CBD effects pets in many of the same ways it affects us, such as tension relief, wellness support, and relief from discomfort. * In fact, some research shows that CBD may help support overall joint health and comfort in dogs. Beyond that, many pet owners have reported a decrease in discomfort after incorporating CBD into their pet’s routine.

Many pets can suffer from nervousness, which can be triggered by a number of things from change in routine, to loud noises, to separation from their owner. Fortunately, research has shown the CBD may help people and pets manage situation-induced nervousness. Researching believe CBD affects the brain’s response to serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for stabilizing mood. Some research shows that CBD may be able to help pets during tense situations, potentially easing feels of nervousness.

How to give CBD to your pet?

Now that you’ve read about some of the benefits CBD may have to offer, you might be wondering how to give CBD to your pets. Luckily, it’s as easy as giving them a treat or a bowl of their favorite food. Pet CBD products typically come as oil drops or treats. The latter can be given to pets just as you would give them a normal treat. “Sit, stay, roll, over, okay fine you’re just so cute” … you know the drill. For pets like cats that might not enjoy treats as much as our other furry friends CBD oil made for pets is a great option. CBD oil drops can be easy added to any food. Though, we recommend adding it to a foot with a strong smell, like canned food or tuna, as some pets can be quite persnickety. Some pet owners will even mix CBD oil with peanut butter.

If you are a pet owner thinking about giving your pet CBD, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian, especially if your pet is already on medications as CBD may affect their effects.

Things to Look Out for When Buying CBD for pets

As always, we want to provide the best for our furry friends, and that should include their CBD. Because the FDA hasn’t released official regulations regarding CBD, it’s up to consumers to make sure their buying quality products.

Here are 3 things to look for when buying CBD for pets:

Made for Pets: Pets should only be given CBD products that are formulated for pets. CBD products made for humans can contain toxic ingredients like xylitol that can cause life-threatening reactions
CBD for Pets: Hemp is a powerful phytoremediator, meaning it absorbs whatever is in the soil or water. When buying CBD for pets and even yourself, its important to look for CBD products to ensure they’re free of pesticides, herbicides, and any other chemicals that may harm you or your pet.
Third Party Testing: To make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable CBD company, check and see if they have their product tested by a third party. Any reputable CBD company should have certificates of analysis for all their products, which show exactly what is inside.

Because the compound was only recently legalized, research regarding CBD for pets is only just beginning but the information we have so far is quite promising. CBD may have a number of potential benefits for you and Fido. Hey, they say pets are good for your health, so why not keep them in good health too?

If you’d like to see how your pet responds to CBD, consider trying our 05 full spectrum pet oil drops or our full spectrum sweet potato hemp goodies.