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When it comes to guiding a national wellness brand, it’s hard to imagine a better fit for CHOU2 PHARMA than John Payne. He recently joined the team as executive chairman, positioning the company to make a positive impact in 2022.
John is leading the efforts to drive CHOU2 PHARMA’s nationwide launch, strategically targeting key markets that already have awareness of cannabinoid science.
His background in animal health includes entering rapidly expanding new markets, driving the adoption of innovative technology, establishing international distribution and launching category-leading products.
“From every level, John understands our pet cannabinoid line and the broader category,” says Alexandra Wakim, CEO of CHOU2 PHARMA. “We value his proven abilities to empower individual growth and encourage new ways of thinking.”
John’s experience sets him up to seamlessly navigate the details—as well as the big picture— while inspiring and mentoring our team.
Among other leadership roles, Payne is currently Vice Chairman, Board of Directors for National Veterinary Associates (NVA) and was previously President and CEO of Compassion-First Pet Hospitals.
Payne founded Compassion-First in 2014, which merged with NVA in 2020. Today, NVA Compassion-First Specialty + ER is dedicated to changing the veterinary landscape and elevating patient outcomes. With 100 locations, the family of hospitals employs more than 3,000 caregivers, including 230 board-certified specialists across a wide range of medical disciplines.
“I’m excited to be playing a hands-on role as CHOU2 PHARMA enters the pet cannabinoid space,” Payne said. “We’re preparing to publish our data, and that scientific backing will support veterinarians who are looking to confidently recommend cannabinoid products.”
The company’s product line addresses a variety of needs; each one has the potential to make a real and natural impact on pets and their families.
CHOU2 PHARMA collaborates with leading scientists and veterinary doctors on all formulations, as well as working closely with industry-leading manufacturers on ingredient sourcing, stringent standards and quality control, multi-layer internal and third-party testing, production, optimization, new technology and logistics.
“Every component and detail of CHOU2 PHARMA product development is industry-leading and scientific to the core,” said Wakim.
We’re proud and inspired to have John at the helm as we navigate what promises to be an exciting year—for us, and for the pets and families we are working hard to comfort.
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Cannabinoid products for animals are not yet approved by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine. It is advised to consult with a veterinary professional regarding any changes or additions to your dog’s health.
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.
