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As humans, we look forward to the celebrations with family and friends that a holiday brings. However, the nights where fireworks explode, laughter exudes and loud music fills a room, high anxiety can occur in dogs. In some instances, the anxiety can be so intense for them, they harm themselves accidentally when trying to escape what they see as chaos.
To ease anxiety and help dogs relax naturally, pet owners have the option to administer the natural compound, CBD. A common player in the health and wellness field recently, CBD is a powerful oil that helps reduce anxiety and stress in pets to keep them calm and feeling themselves. In fact, when administered in its pure state, a World Health Organization report states CBD is actually safe and well-tolerated by animals.
Like all mammals, dogs have an endocannabinoid system, which works in conjunction with CBD to provide various helping qualities. However, it can be hard to trust a new product and wellness area you don’t really know too much about – especially when it comes to a pet. So, it’s important to learn all the ins and outs of CBD for pets from the founder of CBD naturals company Bear Necessities Co., Halee Kalevitch, in order to make an educated choice.
First and foremost, understand that the dosage amount depends on the individual dog. Make note of the size, diet, age, activity, etc. since these variables have an impact on his or her ability to absorb the compound at different rates. To get the clearest answer you can consult a veterinarian for accurate numbers, but it is worth noting that there is no known way for a dog (or human) overdose from CBD – and this includes death.
With Independence Day coming up, the most prevalent questions about CBD and administering it to pets are answered below in time for the celebrations ahead.
Should I start dosing my dogs in advance of July 4th, or should I give them the tincture that day?
It is best to begin dosing gradually to help keep your furry friend’s anxiety level low then administer additional doses on the big day. Think of CBD as a natural Xanax for dogs, but unlike a Xanax, your dog is still there mentally and emotionally.
Does it make a difference if it’s given with or without food?
For the fastest absorption rate, it is best to administer a CBD tincture sublingually without food. This method helps deliver the compound to the bloodstream faster, thus helping with anxiety and other ailments quicker. To ensure quick delivery and accurate potency, simply put the dose amount directly in their mouth. Be sure to wait a few minutes before giving them water or food to allow for maximum absorption.
For pickier dogs, administering CBD tincture by adding it to their food is fine, but note that it takes longer to show effects, and potency can drop. When CBD is absorbed through the stomach and digestive system the compound has a lot more to fight through because of the variables in consumption. However, it is a great way to help aid in digestion, and if this is the only way your dog will take it, adding an extra half dose helps.
What should I look for when buying CBD for my pets?
There are a lot of new CBD products on the market that target pet owners, so it is important to understand key aspects to look for. The biggest thing to look for is HEMP OIL vs HEMP CBD OIL. When a product says “hemp CBD oil”, it means that the product comes from a hemp cannabis plant that has CBD in it. When the product says “hemp oil” that means the product comes from a hemp cannabis plant that may not have any CBD in it.
Think of it this way, say you ordered a dozen red roses for Mother’s Day because it is your mom’s favorite color. However, when the bouquet arrived you discovered yellow roses. Yes, they are still roses but they are not red- the specific aspect of the rose you wanted. This is a big issue surrounding the CBD market because people are trying to get a quick buck by using cheap hemp oil that has a cute look and flashy words but none of the CBD you are hoping for.
Another important aspect to consider is laboratory testing. Look at the label and on the website of the brand, you’re looking to buy to see if they’re open about the testing of their CBD. Reputable companies will have the results available for you to look at, so you can feel confident in your purchase.
Just like humans, dogs do best with consistency, and CBD provides the foundation for this in otherwise stressful and anxiety-driven situations. This 4th of July, be sure to take your dog’s anxiety into consideration and start looking for a pet tincture that is right for yours.
