When choosing the best CBD modality for your pet, keep in mind that each format of CBD has its own unique benefits. If you desire maximum therapeutic effectiveness, consider full-spectrum CBD products. They provide an array of phytocannabinoids and contain the greatest amount of terpenes and botanical material – beneficial plant compounds that work together with the CBD to create an entourage effect to increase effectiveness. Full-spectrum CBD products tend to have a more earthy flavor.  Full-spectrum products are recommended for dogs that may have more aggressive conditions, chronic pain, and high anxiety levels. ​

CBD isolate is another form of CBD and contains the isolated CBD molecule.  There are no other terpenes or cannabinoids present, just the purest form of CBD with more than 99.4% purity.  CBD isolate may be beneficial for animals with hyperactivity or separation anxiety.  It is not as therapeutic as full-spectrum products but allows for targeted symptom management and measurement as CBD is the only compound being used in the product formula.  

Another great choice is broad-spectrum CBD products.  Broad-spectrum is essentially a full-spectrum product without THC.  THC is the compound responsible for provoking euphoria, or a “stoned” feeling when used in higher amounts. HMB’s broad-spectrum products use a powerful and therapeutically useful terpene called “beta-caryophyllene” that engages the same receptor (CB2) in the body that THC does, but does not cause the high associated with THC.  

Beta-caryophyllene is beneficial for a number of health responses including:

• Promotes normal digestive health

• Supports and protects the nervous system

• Helps maintain the body’s normal inflammatory response

• Relieves occasional soreness

Animal studies suggest that we may find future benefits for beta-caryophyllene in the cardiovascular system, the immune system, the liver, for mood, and perhaps other areas where CB2 receptors are active. 

Hemp and marijuana are both classified as cannabis, but they are very different varieties. Marijuana is high in THC (which is responsible for the feeling of being high). Conversely, hemp plants contain almost no THC but are rich in the medicinal CBD compound. CBD extracted from hemp will not make your pet high and is very safe and non-addictive.  Hemp derivatives are not a controlled substance, and hemp products containing less than 0.3% THC are legal in the majority of US states.

Cannabidiol (CBD), which constitutes roughly 80% of the medicinal uses of the cannabis plant, can exert profound restoration and balancing effects on all mammals.  CBD interacts favorably with the endocannabinoid system, which works to restore balance and maintain optimal function within the canine brain and body. 

Pet owners use CBD for a broad range of behavioral and medical issues, including chronic pain, cancer pain, anxiety disorders, obsessions, arthritis, seizures, neurological and digestive disorders, past traumas, social withdrawal, irritable moods, and coming ling with other animals more positively.

While recovering from illness or surgery, CBD can stimulate appetite and expedite healing. CBD can minimize the pain, inflammation, and anxiety your pet may be experiencing at the end of life scenarios.

CBD for dogs and cats comes in many convenient forms. The most common types are extracts, also known as CBD oil, which can be given from a dropper bottle directly into your animal’s mouth, added to food or treat, rubbed into bare skin inside the ears, or dropped on an animal’s paw to be licked off. You may also want to give your dog or cat CBD chews, CBD capsules, and topical CBD balms that absorb quickly into the skin and help reduce effects associated with “hot spots.” 

HMB pet products currently offered are designed to support canine wellness.  HMB is continuing to innovate and produce formulations to serve and balance many animals’ endocannabinoid systems, including horses.  

Stay tuned for more from Hemp Mind & Body for all of your special pets!