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Everything You Need to Know about CBD & Dog Health

Dogs, and all mammals for that matter, have an Endocannabinoid System (ECS) within their Central Nervous System (CNS). The ECS is a series of receptors that interact, or communicate, with endogenous molecules found in the body. The goal is homeostasis or equilibrium.

Sleep, appetite, mood, digestion, memory, and more are regulated by this system. CBD, and other cannabinoid molecules such as CBG or CBN (there are 120+ cannabinoid total molecules), can interact with this system in the same way that endogenous molecules do. That’s the basic science behind it, though our experts are always happy to dive deeper.

Cannabinoid pet health supplements, often referred to as just CBD, are commonly used for calming, hip and joint, digestive, or senior support. While these products are generally safe when crafted under the proper standards, there is a variety of CBD products on the market that contain potentially harmful ingredients such as THC, pesticides, or heavy metals. THC has shown negative side effects such as disorientation, hyperactivity, and nausea in pets. This is why the NASC quality seal is so important, along with a reputable team and science-first approach. 

While less than 0.3% of THC is non-psychoactive and considered safe for dogs, there are THC-free options, such as CHOU2 PHARMA / CHOU2 PET WELLNESS, for pet parents who want that extra purity and assurance.

happy dog

Mark Cushing leads CHOU2 PHARMA’s advocacy and legal efforts—working closely with his external network and Dr. Jeff Pollard—to improve the understanding, education, and policy regarding cannabinoid pet health care. His focus is supporting veterinarians’ ability to discuss and recommend cannabinoid-based products within their practices.

Mr. Cushing provides high-level strategic advice, state and federal lobbying, regulatory and policy services, and consulting to animal health and veterinary clients throughout North America. Since 2004, he has specialized in animal health, animal welfare, veterinary, and veterinary educational issues, developing a cutting-edge practice across these sectors. He currently leads several industry coalitions and initiatives. Mr. Cushing has guided successful AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) accreditations for a growing list of veterinary colleges, including new accreditations.

A frequent speaker at veterinary medicine and other animal policy conferences, he’s an adjunct professor of law at the Duncan School of Law in Knoxville, Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland, and the University of Oregon School of Law. He’s also an honors graduate with distinction from Stanford University and the Willamette University College of Law.

As the founder and managing partner of the Animal Policy Group, LLC (APG), Mr. Cushing offers representation for a wide range of veterinary and pet health interests. Most recently, Mr. Cushing authored Pet Nation, a Penguin Random House title that explores the forces behind pets becoming treasured members of the family.

Mark Cushing leads CHOU2 PHARMA’s advocacy and legal efforts—working closely with his external network and Dr. Jeff Pollard—to improve the understanding, education and policy regarding cannabinoid pet health care. His focus is supporting veterinarians’ ability to discuss and recommend cannabinoid-based products within their practices.

Mr. Cushing provides high-level strategic advice, state and federal lobbying, regulatory and policy services and consulting to animal health and veterinary clients throughout North America. Since 2004, he has specialized in animal health, animal welfare, veterinary and veterinary educational issues, developing a cutting-edge practice across these sectors. He currently leads several industry coalitions and initiatives. Mr. Cushing has guided successful AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) accreditations for a growing list of veterinary colleges, including new accreditations.

A frequent speaker at veterinary medicine and other animal policy conferences, he’s an adjunct professor of law at the Duncan School of Law in Knoxville, Lewis & Clark Law School in Portland and the University of Oregon School of Law. He’s also an honors graduate with distinction from Stanford University and the Willamette University College of Law.

As the founder and managing partner of the Animal Policy Group, LLC (APG), Mr. Cushing offers representation for a wide range of veterinary and pet health interests. Most recently, Mr. Cushing authored Pet Nation, a Penguin Random House title that explores the forces behind pets becoming treasured members of the family.