Summer’s almost here and that means things will start to get busy! Between graduations, parties, and vacations, it’s exciting to start planning for upcoming events, but as you gear up for your 4th of July party or that next vacation, have you thought about including your four-legged friend in the festivities?
What if you have a really anxious kitty at home—one who struggles with loud noises, like fireworks or thunderstorms, or a pup who has trouble with car rides? What can you do to help ease their anxiety and make for a smoother, more stress-free summer?
Research shows that pet-safe CBD products can be a gentle way to help pets with anxiety, arthritis and aching joints, and so much more. Today, we’re here to talk about some of the most common situations where CBD can make a big difference for pets.
What is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a natural oil found in cannabis plants, particularly hemp. Unlike THC, CBD lacks the psychoactive properties responsible for the 'high' associated with cannabis. For pets, CBD is available in various forms such as oils and treats.
Want to understand how and when CBD can play a role in improving your fur baby’s life? We’ve got you!
Is CBD safe for dogs & cats?
While there are pet-safe CBD options on the market, it’s important to note that human-grade CBD products are not safe for your beloved furry friend. Understand that the appropriate dosage will depend on your pet’s age, health and size— what works for one pup may not work for another, so it’s important to be mindful when introducing CBD to your pet’s diet.
Keep in mind that CBD is not a “quick fix.” It’s important to gradually introduce CBD into your pet’s body, starting small and working up to an appropriate dose for their needs. If you’re looking to use CBD for a specific event, start weeks in advance so you can give your pet an effective dosage by the time the date arrives.
CBD chews vs. oils: what’s the difference?
CBD chews can be a good option for situations you can anticipate, but are fleeting. There is a sense of ease and convenience with chews. While, again, CBD is not a quick fix, Chews can be a simple way to add CBD to your pet’s diet. Chews require less time to introduce, and results are much more temporary. Chews can be used on a more “as-needed” basis and can see more fast-acting results than oils. CBD Chews might be better suited for separation anxiety (like when you’re planning to run a quick errand).
CBD Oils are a better option if you need a more long-lasting and consistent control over the dosage. Using CBD oils requires more forethought, and results are not immediate. CBD oils are better for dealing with things like, loud noises (like fireworks), and joint pain/discomfort/irritation.
If you’re unsure about getting started with CBD, don’t worry! We have Nutrition Consultants on staff—come in and chat with our team or give us a call to learn more about adding CBD to your pet’s diet.
Reminder: Always speak to your trusted veterinarian before giving CBD to your pet, especially if they are currently taking any medications. Never give your pet CBD products meant for humans, as these ARE toxic for animals.
Now, let’s talk about four scenarios where CBD can support your fur baby’s comfort and happiness:
1. During (and leading up to) holidays
We know that your Fourth of July grocery list will include burgers and beers, but what about CBD for pets? It’s important to remember that holidays, though they are fun for people, can be stressful for our four-legged friends.
Think about it from your pet’s perspective: Independence Day and New Year’s Eve are known for booming fireworks, which often happen without warning. The sudden noise of fireworks can be extremely startling, causing a flood of stress hormones, increased heart rate, and a spike in adrenaline.
Feeling this level of anxiety is not only uncomfortable, but it can make your pet desperate to find a safe place to hide. Did you know more pets go missing on July 4th than any other day of the year? Dogs and cats are more likely to bolt out the door or flee from your home when they’re scared.
Our Recommendation: King Kanine- King Kalm Alternative Supplement for Dogs. Available in 4 different mg. quantities, this broad-spectrum CBD oil contains Krill and Copaiba oil, which contain anti-inflammatory properties that are great for pain management. The fatty Krill oil also ensures the body can absorb the CBD for a full-body calm. CBD oil can relax your dog into a better headspace where they can better tolerate stimuli that may typically overwhelm them. For events with more guests than usual in the home, this CBD oil is great for socially anxious pups!
*Tip: For best results using CBD oil, it needs to be given consistently to have the desired effect. Start giving your pet small doses, daily, beginning a few weeks before the holiday, and work up to an appropriate dosage to allow time for it to absorb into your pet’s system and take effect. Ask a pet care expert, like our nutritionists, for help determining the right dosage for your pet.
2. When You’re Leaving for Work or an Errand
Separation anxiety is becoming more common in our four-legged companions. Whether you’re heading to work or simply leaving your pet home alone while you get groceries, separation anxiety can be stressful for your fur baby and exhausting for you.
This type of anxiety often manifests in destructive behaviors such as obsessive chewing, scratching, or accidents in the house. You may also see physical stress symptoms like excessive whining, panting, pacing, salivating, or barking.
Our Recommendation: Super Snouts CHILL+OUT chews are made with chamomile and passionflower to support calm and relaxation. For maximum effectiveness, give your pet a dose of CBD around 30-45 minutes before you begin preparing to leave (that means before you start your "leaving rituals" of putting on your shoes and jacket, or grabbing your keys!).
3. Before Heading to the Vet, Groomer, or Taking a Car Ride
Just like humans, animals can experience situational anxiety triggered by circumstances that make them feel afraid or insecure. Your pet may normally be cool as a cucumber, but then suddenly turn into a ball of anxiety when you pull up at the vet’s office, or the groomer, or even when you simply try to load them into the car.
We see many dogs and cats who show signs of stress at the vet or the groomer – such as panting, shaking, excessive drooling, or even growling. Some pets experience similar anxiety on car rides, no matter the destination. Once they are stimulated and full of adrenaline, it can be difficult to get through a vet visit or an entire grooming session. It may even start to make you feel anxious yourself, which could then heighten your pet’s stress.
Our Recommendation: CHILL+OUT chews contain small dosage chews which can be adjusted up or down, so it’s convenient for a short ride or longer veterinarian visit. Both cats and dogs of any size can benefit from CBD chews. Yup, you read that right– we love Super Snouts so much, we’re recommending it again!
4. When They’re Struggling with Chronic Pain
Although CBD is not a medication, many pet parents have seen improvements in their fur baby’s arthritis or other chronic joint pain after using CBD. It's common to notice stiff or restricted movements in senior pets and large breeds, due to hip or joint pain.
CBD offers a gentle and natural supplement that works to reduce pain and inflammation, soothe aching hips and joints, and promote strong, healthy bones. Our JM team member Cat has seen success using CBD oil to help her 17-year-old pup Widget reduce the frequency of seizures and boost his joint health. Read Cat and Widget’s story on our blog.
Our Recommendation: Super Snouts Hemp + Joint soft chews are made to support healthy joints, ligaments, and tendons. Before exploring CBD for pain support, speak with your veterinarian or an animal care specialist to discuss your pet’s unique health needs, and other medications your pet takes, and to determine the right dosage for your pet.
Interested in exploring CBD for your pet? We’re here to help!
We are here to make your life easier, and your pet's life happier. Our pet care experts are happy to chat with you about your fur baby’s individual needs, and how CBD chews or oils may help support your pet's health and wellness. Contact us at 508-588-5661, info@jmpetresort.com, or stop in to speak with a pet care specialist at your convenience!