What is Hemp?
So what exactly is this magical herb?
Hemp is a natural substance that is found in the hemp plant. Hemp can produce effects on the body’s central nervous system and immune system. The cannabis plant is an umbrella term that encompasses several species of plants, including the hemp plant and marijuana plant.
Here’s where a few general misunderstandings occur. First, products from the hemp plant are legal in all 50 states. In fact, hemp-based products are likely already a part of your everyday life. Hemp is used in all sorts of ways, including fabrics, fibers, and fuel. Industrial hemp is used in manufacturing clothing, as well as beauty products and health supplements. You may also see hemp milk on the shelves of your local grocery store.
Hemp has an extremely low level of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which is another well-known cannabinoid. THC is the psychoactive component of the cannabis plant that people associate with “getting high.” The THC level in hemp can be no higher than 0.3%. Given hemp’s very low THC level, hemp is safe for dogs and will not have any mind-altering effect on Fido.
Second, while the hemp plant and marijuana plant fall under the same species of plant (Cannabis sativa L.), they are different in many ways, including genetic makeup, cultivation, and usage. The major difference that we want to make sure pet owners are aware of is the THC levels. The THC levels of marijuana plant-derived CBD can be as high as 20% (or even higher!), making CBD from the marijuana plant potentially very toxic for your pup.
Of course, Hemp derived from the marijuana plant is legal only in states where recreational and medical marijuana is legal. Therefore, many pet owners won’t have the potential for mistaking the two. However, it is important to recognize that Hemp products are not all cultivated and created equally (or even come from the same plant).
Regarding the Hemp that your precious pup may benefit from, we’re talking about the hemp plant.
What Does Hemp Do?
Hemp is an all-natural, non-toxic substance that can potentially support a number of ailments. Once the liquid is extracted from the hemp plant, it can be used in a variety of ways. One of the most highly studied topics is the use of Hemp for bone and joint support as well as promoting relaxation in humans and pets.
Although it’s rather unlikely that conventional veterinarians will begin stocking their shelves with Hemp oils, the herb has holistic veterinarians singing its praises (and rightfully so).
We’ll get into the benefits of Hemp products momentarily. But, before we do, we want to answer one of the most common questions regarding cannabis for dogs.
Can Dogs Get High?
A huge misconception is that Hemp dog treats and Hemp oil for dogs will get your pooch higher than the moon. This isn’t the case. As we previously discussed, the Hemp that you will purchase for Fido is derived from the hemp plant and will have less than 0.3% THC, thus making it safe.
However, if your pup were to ingest CBD oil or a CBD edible derived from the marijuana plant, it is possible for them to get “high,” but, more likely, they will get violently ill. If our readers use marijuana recreationally, it is imperative for the marijuana to be kept far out of reach of their dogs. Your pup will not benefit from oils or edibles derived from the marijuana plant, so it’s best for them to stay far away!
Hemp from the hemp plant is the only way to go for your dog.
Benefits of Hemp for Dogs
Now, let’s get down to the remarkable benefits that Hemp is continuously being recognized for.
Hemp Oil Promote Relaxation
One of the ways that hemp oil can benefit dogs and humans is through promoting relaxation in dogs. As humans, we know what it’s like to feel stressed, some of us more so than others. What pet owners may not realize is that their precious pup can also face a great deal of stress, whether it is in the form of travel-related stress or various phobias (e.g., fireworks, thunderstorms).
Hemp Oil Supports Healthy Bones & Joints
Hemp may also play a role in supporting healthy bones, joints, and connective tissue in people and their dogs. The Hemp oil can also help maintain a normal inflammatory response and may help relieve joint stiffness associated with normal daily exercise and activity.
Types of Hemp for Dogs
As more and more research comes out on the incredible benefits of Hemp oil, more products are being created as a way for our furry friends to reap all the greatness that the herb has to offer.
We always recommend moving slowly when introducing a new product into your dog’s life, no matter what the product is. This rule of thumb is no different for Hemp oil. Although Hemp oil is all-natural and non-toxic, it is still something new. It is best to go slowly, even starting with half the recommended dosage and increasing from there. Trust us, your pup will soon reap the benefits of this magical herb, so there’s no need to rush the process.
Hemp Oil for Dogs
Pet parents may choose to begin introducing CBD into their dog’s life through CBD oil. The CBD oil products typically come with a dropper and make it easy for pet owners to control the dosage of CBD oil that they are administering.
Hemp oil, available here, is based on your pup’s weight and can be purchased in levels 1, 2, or 3.
- Level 1: Up to 25 pounds
- Level 2: 25–50 pounds
- Level 3: Over 50 pounds
Most pet owners report that their furry friends do not have any problems with the taste of the hemp oil. However, we understand that some of our readers may have a picky eater on their hands. In these cases, we recommend adding the Hemp oil to your dog’s food or favorite treat.
Hemp Dog Bites
Once your pup becomes adjusted to the Hemp oil, pet owners may opt for one of our Hemp dog bites.
These Hemp dog bites are an easy way for pet owners to ensure that their fur baby is reaping all of the benefits that Hemp has to offer through a yummy treat that your pup is sure to love.
We recommend these tastypeanut butter-flavored Hemp bites for dogs. Our peanut butter-flavored calming pet bites will help promote a care-free, happy life. Our calming chews are also great for restless sleepers and pups who get a bit too excited in public. Trust us, these chews can really help avoid some embarrassing situations.
Additionally, you may want to check out our turmeric-flavored bites that support healthy bones and joints.
If your pup suffers from seasonal allergies and/or skin irritations, you may be interested in our Restore Hemp dog bites. These coconut-flavored treats may play a role in helping with seasonal allergies and other skin sensitivities.