CBD: What is It & Is It Right for Your Pet?
By Diane Krueger
If it seems like every time you turn on the TV, computer, etc., you hear about CBD, you’re not wrong. CBD is one of the fastest-growing markets in the United States, with sales projected to top $22 billion by 2025, according to the Brightfield Group. From food to beverages to beauty products, CBD is being added to a multitude of products. Therefore, it’s only logical that CBD, which has many beneficial properties, would make its way into products for pets. So what is CBD and where does it come from?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in cannabis and hemp. CBD should not be confused with THC, also known as delta-9-tetrahydrocannabidiol. THC is a different compound found in cannabis which gives marijuana it psychoactive properties. It’s THC that gets you “high”, not CBD. This is why CBD products are considered safe.
Now that you know what CBD is … is CBD right for your pet? “We have seen huge success for animals suffering from arthritis, pain, anxiety (separation, thunder, fireworks, strangers), any sort of inflammation within the body, seizure management, GI tract issues, puppy crate training, immune system boosting, as well as over health and wellness,” says Jon Bicker, Area Manager and Customer Service Representative for Pet Releaf. “One study suggested that a mammal cannot truly reach optimal health without activating the endocannabinoid system through the use of CBD.”
CBD has many beneficial qualities and more studies are being conducted to examine all of its restorative/healing/medicinal properties. In addition to the benefits Bicker touts above, CBD exhibits some cancer-fighting abilities. Researchers have found CBD can kill cancer cells and aid in the efficiency of traditional cancer treatments. In addition, it helps relieve allergies and some autoimmune diseases by reducing their root causes, inflammatory cytokines; and demonstrates benefits for cardiovascular health.
While CBD usage is overall safe, it is not without its side effects. The most common being dry mouth, lower blood pressure and drowsiness.
With CBD growing in popularity, there are a throng of products available for pets. But buyers beware, not all are created equally. When choosing a CBD product make sure it is certified organic. Non-organic and non-certified CBD can contain pesticides and other chemical additives. There is no set standard as to the minimum or maximum amount of CBD a product contains. So you’ll want to check the ingredient list for the specific quantity. In addition, you’ll want to verify that the product does not contain any THC. According to Bicker, other factors to consider include knowing where they hemp was sourced, the method used for extracting the CBD and if the product contains CBD isolate, which can make the product less effective.
Manufacturers like Pet Releaf and Super Snouts offer varied product lines to accommodate most pets’ discerning tastes and preferences. From flavored treats, to soft chews to tinctures, there is an assortment of CBD products available. Pet Releaf’s Liposome CBD oil, offers the “convenience of administering the Liposome CBD oil directly on top of food and is highly popular within consumers,” Bicker says.
Hungry Hound is proud to offer both Pet Releaf and Super Snouts products in store.