It’s for GOOD reason Cannabidoil, or CBD, is all the rage right now. But toxic growing practices can have a BAD effect on our Wheatens. And the industry has some shady companies with UGLY practices. Don’t become discouraged. Once you find a reputable company, CBD is producing some promising results for arthritis, anxiety, cancer, epilepsy and more.
GOOD: CBD, comes from the hemp plant, a variety of the same plant species as the marijuana plant. Hemp is quite different in that it contains less than .3% of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is the psychoactive compound that can cause hallucinations. Marijuana contains far more THC, and is illegal in most states.
GOOD: Did you know your dog (and you, for that matter) naturally produces cannabinoids? These cannabinoids fit neatly into receptors found throughout the body. The goal is homeostasis, or a stable environment despite what might be going on externally. Surprised your dog naturally produces cannabinoids? In fact, they can be found in every animal species down to the sponge.
BAD: Our Wheatens can become deficient in cannabinoids if their bodies don’t produce enough. Studies are suggesting similar to a supplement, CBD can provide what might be lacking.
UGLY: Undercover investigation has proven discouraging results. A high percentage of CBD products do not have the correct amount of CBD as listed on the label. Asking the right questions can help you avoid wasting money on “fake” CBD.
GOOD: It is incredibly important to choose a company that produces CBD the right way and without harmful pesticides and toxins. Why? The hemp plant is a natural phytoremediator. This means the hemp plant naturally cleanses the soil and air from any metals or toxins around it and draws it up into the plant. Great for farmers. But these metals and pesticides found in most CBD could be dangerous to our Wheatens. Here’s how to find a product without toxins or pesticides:
1. Has the ground been farmed on in the past 50 years? If so, you can expect residue of pesticides and heavy metals to be present in the soil, which make their way into the hemp plant and subsequently into our Wheatens.
2. How is it extracted? CO2 (high-pressure carbon dioxide gas) is preferred so that
chemical solvents aren’t used.
3. Expect transparency. If the company does not disclose it’s farming practices,
extraction methods and third party testing results. It’s probably for good reason.
4. Decide if you want THC, which can make your dog high. .3% is allowed by law. Some prefer to choose a company which has 0% THC so it doesn’t build up in their system.
5. CBD oil is preferred over treats or gummies to avoid unwanted artificial flavorings or colorings.
BAD: But wait! If THC is taken completely out, doesn’t that create a deficiency?? Yes, it does! Isolating just the CBD compound is not nearly effective without the THC. That’s why many are using essential oils in conjunction with CBD.
GOOD: Terpenes from Essential Oils are an effective substitute to THC and help complete the “entourage effect” by which cannabis compounds act synergistically. Simply use essential oils at the same time the CBD is being administered. For instance, the CBD oil can be dropped under the tongue and the essential oil can be applied to the back of the neck. An excellent guide to help pick the right essential is Essential Oils Animal Desk Reference, by Life Science Publishing. www.discoverlsp.com
Dosage: Start slow and increase as needed. A safe rule of thumb is .2mg of CBD per pound. If your Wheaten weighs 25lbs, administer 5mg of CBD. Here is a handy chart to consider based upon strength of formula you purchase.
75mg formula = 2.5mg of CBD per ml of oil. (a ml is typically a dropper full)
150mg formula = 5mg of CBD per ml of oil
300mg formula = 10 mg of CBD per ml of oil
In Conclusion: If you would like to try CBD on your Wheaten for a variety of emotional and physical issues, research which company uses no pesticides and toxins during the growing and distillation process. Decide how much THC you are willing to tolerate. Then combine it with a therapeutic-grade essential oil for maximum benefit.
Paula Henderson’s love for Wheatens began in 1999 with her first Wheaten, Kayla. She enjoys researching and teaching proven holistic practices for our beloved dogs. She can be reached with comments or questions at (407) 921-2672 or paula@paulahenderson.com.