The demand for CBD products in the pet industry is growing. Industry research conducted in 2019 forecasted that the CBD market could be worth nearly $24 billion in the U.S. by 2023, with sales from the pet category making up 7%.
While COVID-19 has eliminated any level of certainty around consumer buying, as of late April, pet CBD sales during the pandemic have maintained a 30% increase.
So, by now you may be all in on CBD, but pet parents still have questions about safety, uses, and, likely the biggest concern of them all – will this get my dog… high?
To answer these questions, we turned to Heidi Hill, founder of Holistic Hound and a renowned CBD expert in the pet industry. Watch the interview below or read more.
We can all agree, life has been stressful and with one of the most unpleasant holidays for pets on the horizon, Fourth of July, it’s high time to add a few CBD products to your shelves. Visit the CBD Market and stock up today.
CBD Pet Chat with Heidi Hill, founder of Holistic Hound
What is CBD and how does it work?
CBD is cannabidiol, one of over 100 phytocannabinoids found in the cannabis or hemp, plant. It is a well-studied, major cannabinoid, along with THC, but is non-intoxicating and very safe.
Our bodies produce chemical compounds known as “endocannabinoids” that interact with and are triggered by, the phytocannabinoids in the cannabis plant to create and restore optimal balance throughout the body and brain.
What is the difference between hemp and CBD?
CBD can be derived from either hemp or marijuana; both are strains or species of Cannabis. What defines and differentiates hemp-derived CBD as being legal and able to be sold in retail outlets is that it contains less than .3% THC. Anything over .3% THC is considered marijuana and must be sold through licensed dispensaries.
Are they safe for my pets?
Yes, CBD is very safe for pets! Some research has been done on the effects of CBD on animals and more are underway but many more are needed, especially concerning optimal dosing for certain conditions.
Although THC also has great therapeutic benefits, any amounts above the legal minimum of .3% THC should be under veterinary supervision as dogs and cats have even more cannabinoid receptors than humans and are more susceptible to the intoxicating effects.
At Holistic Hound, we formulated our products with minimal amounts of CBD (1mg per 10lbs) as even low doses can be very effective. However, if desired results are not seen within a few days, you can safely incrementally increase the dosage. There is no one size fits all so experimentation may be necessary.
My pet has never tried CBD, what product should I start with?
It’s preference. The oils are considered by many to have greater absorption but both oils and edibles should ideally be given on an empty stomach – at least a half-hour before or after a meal – for maximum bioavailability.
Water-soluble products can be given with or without food and they have 2-3 times greater absorption and bioavailability than traditional oils and edibles.
What is the difference between CBD products?
There are many CBD products on the market but some of the key consideration when choosing are:
- Whether the hemp is grown organically and even better, is USDA certified organic, as designated by the green/white logo seal.
- Hemp plants uptake much of the toxins in the soil so they must be grown organically for the highest level of safety for our pets.
- Whether the manufacturer can provide Certificates of Analysis (CoA’s) and independent third-party lab results that are easily and readily available.
- The type of extraction method.
- At Holistic Hound, our full spectrum hemp is extracted using a patented, solvent-free, heated air “Flash Activation ™” system which extracts in seconds thereby preserving naturally occurring terpenes, flavonoids and cannabinoid profiles for a pure, potent product.
- Whether they are “full” or “broad” spectrum.
- Full Spectrum Hemp Oils contain CBD, as well as all the other beneficial constituents found in the cannabis plant (other minor cannabinoids, vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, terpenes, etc.) that work together synergistically for what is known as “The Entourage Effect.”
- Broad spectrum may contain all of the same except with the THC removed.
- The type of carrier oil used and whether it’s organic.
- The most commonly used oils used to dilute are MCT coconut, hemp, or salmon.
What does it treat?
CBD has many therapeutic benefits:
- Promotes calmness and relaxation
- Supports immune system function
- Supports a healthy inflammatory response
- Helps maintain a healthy intestinal tract
- Enhances physical and mental well-being
How will it affect my pet?
Every animal is different and therefore, may respond a little differently. Ideally, CBD should have a calming effect on dogs and cats but not make them sleepy or groggy. If that happens, we recommend reducing the dosage by half or trying CBG oil, which has many of the same benefits but has a mildly uplifting (not stimulating) effect.
