Beginners Guide to CBD for Pets 🐾
You've heard of CBD; and you may be wondering 🤔 if it will help your pet? Keep reading to learn the basics for your pack.
We know you love your pets and want the very best for them. With shorter lifespans than humans, pet parents are willing to go to the moon for their pack. Cannabidiol (CBD) from hemp boasts many benefits for canine and feline bodies. Have you tried it for your furkids?
Almost 60% of pet parents that buy CBD for their pets also use it for themselves. They believe in the benefits and want to help their forbids with pain, Inflammation and anxiety.
For the 40% of pet parents who haven't tried CBD, there're questions on its safety, potency, and benefits. Keep reading to learn more about the potential holistic benefits of CBD.
WHAT IS CBD?
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a naturally-occurring compound from the Cannabis Sativa plant. Cannabis offers a range of over 400 chemical compounds, including CBD. This compound has therapeutic value, but doesn't produce the typical psychoactive effects of marijuana (THC).
The Farm Bill of 2018 legalized hemp derived CBD as long as it contained less that 0.3% THC (however guidelines may vary from state to state). When consumed, CBD affects the endocannabinoid system to help regulate pain, memory, mood, immunity and stress.
THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM
The endocannabinoid system works with receptors throughout the body to provide a stable environment. It manages sleep, hormones, cell growth, reproduction, mood, immune function, and more. CBD interacts with endocannabinoids to help them work more effectively.
The endocannabinoid receptors are CB1, present in the brain, nervous system, glands, and organs; and CB2, found in regulatory and immune systems.
IS CBD SAFE FOR DOGS?
CBD grown organically in the USA 🇺🇸 is safe for your mammals. CBD contains less than 0.3% THC; so it will NOT make your dog high or uncomfortable. It's not addictive or psychoactive. CBD has become a popular holistic treatment because of the lack of side effects.
Some pets can experience non-threatening issues. These symptoms are short-lived, and you can avoid them by adjusting your pet’s CBD dosage. Side effects may include dry mouth, low blood pressure, and diarrhea. CBD should not be given to dogs with liver or kidney issues.
HOW MUCH CBD DO I GIVE MY DOG?
Unfortantely, there's no clear-cut answer to this question. Every pet is different and has unique needs. Loosely, dosage is based on the size of the pet and the severity of the ailments.
CBD DOSAGE FOR DOGS 🐶
A general guideline of CBD dosing falls within the range of 1-5 mg of CBD per 10lbs of body weight for dogs (with the average being between 1-3 mg per day). You can use our CBD dose calculator for a clear number.
For example, a 70# dog could take anywhere from 7-35 mg of CBD a day. We recommend pet parents start low and slowly walk their dosage up to find the optimal dosage for their furkid.
UNDERSTANDING POTENCY
When you’re shopping for CBD, you’ll notice that different strengths available. You can buy 150 mg bottles, 300 mg bottles, 600 mg tinctures, and 900 mg of CBD oil from La Barkeria.
This measurement refers to the potency of CBD in the entire bottle. It’s common for oil tinctures to come with a 1 mL dropper. Below is the breakdown of potency for La Barkeria Pet Tinctures.
150MG Pet Tincture: designed for small dogs or cats - contains 5mg of CBD per serving (pipette); with 30 servings per bottle.
300MG Pet Tincture: designed for medium dogs - contains 10mg of CBD per serving (pipette); with 30 servings per bottle.
600MG Pet Tincture: designed for large dogs - contains 20mg of CBD per serving (pipette); with 30 servings pet bottle.
900MG Pet Tincture: designed for x-large dogs or horses - contains 30mg of CBD per serving (pipette); with 30 servings per bottle.
Finding a dosage that works on a full or half pipette measurement makes it easier to administer to your pooch. Alternatively, you can choose to use CBD dog treats. While edibles absorb into the body a little slower than a tincture, they're convenient and more consistent. Below is the potency of La Barkeria CBD Treats for dogs.
2MG DOG TREATS: prepared for small dogs - each treat contains 2mg of CBD; with 30 treats per bag (or 60mg CBD per package).
5MG DOG TREATS: prepared for medium dogs - each treat contains 5mg of CBD; with 30 treats per bag (or 150mg CBD per package).
10MG DOG TREATS: prepared for large dogs - each treat contains 10mg of CBD; with 30 treats per bag (or 300mg CBD per package).
25MG DOG TREATS: prepared for x-large dogs or dogs with sever ailments - each treat contains 25mg of CBD; with 30 treats per bag (or 750mg CBD per package).
Dogs do not overdose on CBD. However, following the dosage chart on the back of your dog’s CBD bottle can help avoid side effects, such as lethargy, excessive thirst, diarrhea, and low blood pressure.
When adding a new holistic option or supplement to your pet’s life, it’s always best to start with a low dose and slowly increase it. If your pets are currently on any mediation, consult your veterinarian before starting CBD to ensure your pet’s safety.
CBD DOSAGE FOR CATS
Since most cats are in similar weight range, the amount of CBD is usually fairly fairly similar. We generally advise about 0.1mg to 0.25mg of CBD per pound of feline body weight. Meaning if your cat is 10 lbs, they will receive 1-3mg of CBD per day.
From our 150mg potency bottle, the average cat will receive a quarter to a half of pipette per day. However, this may vary for large breed cats or cats with sever ailments.
TIPS FOR CATS & DOGS
We know you want to see results, but don’t offer them the highest dose on the first day. Any new addition to your pet’s wellness routine will take some time and adjustment.
We advise that you start with the smallest serving size for your pet’s weight; then gradually increase until you see the desired affects. Before you know it, your furkid will be reaping the benefits of CBD. It may take a few weeks, so be patient and consistent. It may take a week or two to figure out your dog's optimal optimal dosage; but stick with it and you will see the benefits. If you are giving CBD to a dogs with anxiety, exercise them after their treatment to push the CBD through their body faster.
HOW TO GIVE CBD TO YOUR PET
There're a few options to choose from when giving your pet CBD; the best method depends on your dog’s personality.
Direct administration will have the quickest results; but also has opportunity for inconsistent dosages. Draw the CBD into the pipette; then squirter it as far back as possible in the dog's mouth. If your dog fights this method or flicks their 👅 tongue afterwards; then there's opportunity for product loss.
Drip the CBD onto a porous treat or into pumpkin; allow it to soak into the treat, then feed it to your dog
Add CBD to your dog's or cat's meal. Again, thus option offer opportunities for dosing inconsistencies. Make sure to clean up uneaten food to avoid other pets or kids consumption.
CBD DOG TREATS
CBD dog treats boast incredible flavors that appeal to the canine or feline palate. CBD treats for mobility may include natural ingredients like Green Lipped Mussel Powder.
BEST CBD FOR DOGS
The CBD market can be daunting and unfortantely it is common for hemp companies to misguide consumers. Research conducted by the FDA found that some companies products didn't possess the amount of CBD advertised and/or contain harmful pesticides.
In addition, CBD is not allowed to be sold on platforms like Etsy or Amazon. If you are purchasing hemp based products on those websites; they do NOT contain CBD; they are made from hemp oil (not CBD hemp oil). If the product seems like a great deal; look into the details and make sure it has CBD and it was grown organically in the USA 🇺🇸.
It is critical to be cautious ⚠️ when shopping for CBD products. Here are some non-negotiables when 🛍 shopping for CBD for yourself or your pets.
Reviews & Reputations: What do people think about the brand in question? Whether it is word of mouth, online reviews or business ratings; there are a lot of ways to find out about a business these days (even a small business).
Hemp Grown: When it comes to CBD, make sure it is hemp-derived and is grown organically within the 🇺🇸 USA. This is the only way to be sure it is safe for your pets. If you are looking for CBD benefits, make sure you don't accidentally purchase hemp seed products (generally sold on Amazon and in big box stores). While hemp seed may do wonders for your dog's coat; it does NOT contain CBD.
Hemp Seed vs CBD Hemp Oil: While labels can be very confusing or even misleading; giving your dog hemp seed oil will not have the same benefits as whole-plant hemp oil. At the end of the day, if the product you are buying doesn't specifically say CBD, then it's not CBD.
Natural & Organic: Farming practices make a huge difference in thep🪴 plant quality and, consequently, the oil quality. Choose a brand that uses organically organically grown USA hemp; meaning the farm did not treat their crops with pesticides, fungicides, or solvents. Finally, choose a brand that creates human-grade oil that is 100% natural, non-GMO, and free from common allergens. The FDA has stringent requirements for hemp products for humans, ensuring human-grade products are safe and up to human consumption requirements. Your pet deserves the same.
Full-Spectrum: CBD is available in isolate, broad spectrum and full spectrum. Isolate only contains CBD (striping out other useful cannabinoids). While this may still help your pet; full spectrum CBD contains all the cannabinoids (i.e. an entourage of cannabinoids, flavanoids and terpenes that act together to provide a more consistent longer acting result). Full-Spectrum is extracted via the Co2 method; which yields a pure clean quality oil that involves little to no post processing.
Lab-Tested: Reputable CBD companies send their products for testing at a 🔬third-party lab. Then, they'll receive a Certificate of Analysis (COA) which shows an in-depth report of the contents, including contaminants and THC levels. A trustworthy brand will share this information. You can ask to see their COA, then then ask them questions about their product.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ⁉️)
Can dogs take CBD oil for humans? Yes! Humans can actually take CBD oil for dogs.The FDA has been stringent in CBD oil products for humans, ensuring human-grade products are safe and meet human consumption requirements. Your pet deserves the best, so choose a pet CBD brand that uses human-grade CBD oil. Just ensure that the THC levels are within legal guidelines in most states (under 0.3% THC).
Do veterinarians recommend CBD? Speak to your vet before adding CBD to your dog's daily routine. However, in most states, veterinarians cannot legally recommend CBD for risk of losing their license or facing fines. CBD studies in pets are ongoing, most vets do not outright endorse or discourage the use of CBD products. Colorado State University and Cornell Veterinarian Schools have promising research showing benefits of CBD for dogs with seizure disorders and dogs with arthritis.
Are there side effects? Do not give your pet CBD if they are on medication for their kidneys or liver. If you give your dog too much CBD you may be lethargic or may vomit (extreme cases). We recommend starting your dog slow, and if you see any behavioral or environmental changes; call the producer of the product and your veterinarian.
CBD can be an effective tool when used properly. If you have questions about our products, call (817) 770-0130. We have studied the science and if we do not know, we will find out. We are committed to helping dog live happy lives.
FDA DISCLOSURE: Statements regarding CBD have not been evaluated by the United States Food & Drug Administration (FDA). This product is not intended to cure, mitigate, diagnose, treat or prevent disease. Any information contained in or made available through any marketing material is not intended to provide or be the substitute for veterinary, medical or legal advise. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or possible complications before using any products from La Barkeria.