Hemp 4 your furry paw friend
Are there risks?
Is hemp right for your furry paw friend?Discover the benefits-risks of hemp 4 your four paw friend.
Hemp for Paws
Understanding the Potential Benefits and Risks of CBD Products for Your Furry Friend
What is Hemp and CBD?
Benefits of Hemp for Pets
Risks and Side Effects of Hemp for Pets
Hemp has become a popular topic in the pet industry in recent years. This is due to the increasing awareness of the potential benefits of hemp products for pets, particularly the non-psychoactive compound, cannabidiol (CBD).
Hemp has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties, but it is only in recent times that research into its potential benefits for pets has been undertaken.
Let’s will explore the different benefits and risks of using hemp products for pets. We will also discuss how to choose the right hemp products for your pet, recommended dosages and administration methods, and the differences between hemp and marijuana.
What is Hemp and CBD?
Hemp is a type of cannabis plant that is grown for its industrial use. It contains very low levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound that is responsible for the “high” associated with marijuana use. In contrast, CBD is a non-psychoactive compound that is found in hemp plants. It is often used for its therapeutic properties.
Hemp plants contain over 100 different cannabinoids, but CBD is the most widely known and studied. CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that regulate many bodily functions, including mood, appetite, and immune function. The ECS also plays a role in pain perception and inflammation.
Risks and Side Effects of Hemp 4 Pets
Potential for toxicity and overdose
Hemp products can be toxic to pets if they contain high levels of THC. THC can cause a range of symptoms in pets, including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and seizures. It is important to choose hemp products that are specifically formulated for pets and contain very low levels of THC.
Interaction with medications
CBD can interact with certain medications, including those used for seizures and blood thinners. Pet owners should consult with their veterinarian before giving their pet any hemp products, especially if their pet is on medication.
Negative effects on liver function
CBD has been found to have potential hepatotoxicity in some animal studies. This means that it can have negative effects on liver function. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on liver function, pet owners should be aware of this potential risk.
Will Hemp benefit your furry 4 paw friend?
Hemp products for pets have the potential to offer many benefits, including relief of anxiety and stress, pain management, improvement of skin and coat health, support of joint health and mobility, and assistance with digestive issues. While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits and risks of hemp products for pets, the available evidence suggests that they may offer a safe and effective alternative treatment option for a range of conditions.
Pet owners who are considering using hemp products for their pets should consult with their veterinarian to determine the best course of treatment. They should also choose high-quality products that are specifically formulated for pets and have been tested for purity and potency, and follow the recommended dosages and administration methods.
As more research is conducted and more products become available, it is likely that hemp products for pets will become increasingly popular among pet owners looking for safe and effective alternative treatment options. With careful research and guidance from veterinary professionals, hemp products for pets may offer a promising new approach to pet health and wellness.
On the other paw, your pet may also wag their to tail to the benefits of all raw pet food!
As a pet parent, we all want our furry friends to be healthy and happy. And what better way to do that than by giving them a diet that's both balanced and nutritious? That's where raw pet food comes in - it's quickly gaining popularity among pet owners, and for good reason.Lets explore why raw pet food might be the perfect choice for your four-legged companion.
What is Raw Pet Food?
Raw pet food consists of uncooked meat, bones, and organs. This may include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, and other types of meat. The idea behind raw pet food is to provide your pet with a diet that more closely resembles what they would eat in the wild. Raw pet food may also include fruits and vegetables, supplements, and other natural ingredients to provide a complete and balanced diet.
Who is Raw Pet Food For?
Raw pet food can be a great choice for dogs and cats of all ages and sizes. It's particularly beneficial for pets with food allergies, sensitivities, or other health issues. Raw pet food can also be a good choice for pet owners who want to provide their pets with a more natural and nutritious diet.
Improved Digestion
Raw pet food typically consists of unprocessed meat, organs, and bones, which provide natural enzymes and probiotics that support healthy digestion. These enzymes and probiotics aid in breaking down food and improving nutrient absorption, leading to better overall digestion.
Stronger Immune System
Raw pet food contains natural sources of vitamins and minerals that are essential for maintaining a strong immune system and overall health. These nutrients support organ function, tissue repair, and cell growth, which all contribute to better immune function. Additionally, raw pet food often contains antioxidants that protect against cellular damage and reduce the risk of disease.
Shinier Coat and Healthier Skin
Raw pet food is rich in essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 and omega-6, which are vital for maintaining healthy skin and a shiny coat. These fatty acids also help reduce inflammation and improve skin conditions, such as dryness and itchiness.
Reduced Allergies
Many pets have food allergies or sensitivities that can cause digestive problems, skin irritation, and other health issues. Raw pet food eliminates common allergens found in traditional pet foods, such as grains and artificial preservatives. This can reduce the likelihood of allergic reactions and improve overall health.
Better Weight Management
Raw pet food is often lower in carbohydrates and higher in protein than traditional pet foods, which can help pets maintain a healthy weight and avoid obesity. Additionally, the high protein content helps pets feel fuller for longer, reducing the need for overeating.
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What is Smack dog food?Smack dog food is a premium brand of raw dog food that is made in Canada. It is made with high-quality, organic ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, colours, and flavors.
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Can my puppy eat raw food?Simple answer, yes! Puppies can start eating a raw diet as soon as they’ve been weaned off of their mother’s milk (following the raw weaning method). But even if the breeder or rescue centre hasn’t started on raw, you can start them on a well-balanced raw food diet from 8+ weeks old! Puppies need both the right type, and the right amount of food during their development, so it’s important to avoid poor feeding practices whilst puppies are growing to avoid skeletal problems.
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Can I mix raw food with dry food?Yes and no. We don’t recommend feeding your dog a raw food diet alongside your regular commercialised kibble as they digest at different rates and will contain very different ingredients that may cause digestive upset.
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My dog has a sensitive stomach. Will switching to raw food help?Virtually any food substance you can think of can generate an allergy or sensitivity in a dog. This can include even the most common and harmless ingredients such as wheats, corn and grains. By cutting these out of your dog’s diet you resolve their sensitivity issue. It’s a well-known fact that dogs fed on a commercial dry diet have more allergies than those on a more natural one that contains less ingredients. Therefore feeding your dog a high quality and properly planned raw food diet can reverse sensitivity problems.
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What are the benefits of a raw food diet?Where do we start? Here are just some of the benefits of feeding raw: • Better oral hygiene • Shinier skin and coat • Improved Digestion • Increased food enjoyment • Increased energy and stamina • Fewer and better formed stools • Boosted immune system • Less allergies We could go on…
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How do I switch my dog to a raw food diet?There are a number of ways to switch your dog over to a raw food diet but it’s very much dependent on the dog. Are they quite sensitive to food transition? METHOD ONE – COLD TURKEY There are significant differences in the digestive process and speed of digestion between raw and (in particular) dry kibble. However, if your dog doesn’t have a sensitive stomach then many owners believe in just making that immediate switch as they’re less prone to digestive upset that typically results in diarrhea (yuck!). Every dog is different and some dogs do easily make that immediate switch with no fuss. But we would only recommend trying this method if you have a puppy or a younger dog. We also suggest keeping an eye on your dog and their stools for the first few days of making that immediate switch. Look to see whether they’ve adjusted easily or need to transition a little slower and try either method 2 or 3. METHOD TWO – PHASE IT When switching from other food a method that most dog owners tend to use is the phased approach. This is a particularly good method for dogs who have sensitive stomachs, as changing their food from one to another can cause gastrointestinal upset. In particular if your dog was previously being fed dry commercial kibble then they could potentially have poor gut bacteria, suppressed digestive enzymes and a weakened immune system. This all stems from eating artificial and grain-based processed foods. To get your dog’s digestive system back up and running and decrease the risk of GI upset, we personally suggest gradually adding a small amount of new food to make up roughly 25% of the meal. Increase gradually over the course of 7 days until you’ve fully swapped. METHOD THREE – TREAT TO BOWL This method is a healthy medium between the immediate switch and the phased approach. It’s popular amongst owners who prefer to test the waters with their dog first before making that change. And it’s as simple as it sounds. Use the raw food as a ‘treat’ on the first day and keep an eye on the condition of your dog’s stool. Increase the amount of raw treats over the next few days and continue to monitor their stool. If the stool is normal then replace one whole meal with raw. Over the next couple days if your dog’s stool remains healthy then stop the old food and switch completely to raw.
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My dog poops less often, is this normal?"Yes! When feeding your dog a raw diet you’ll soon notice that their stools are smaller, better formed and that your dog is pooping less. Why? Because raw food is easy to digest and your dog is able to absorb pretty much all the nutrients, so what you’re left with is, well… not much!
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Why is raw better than dry kibble or cooked can food?Commercialised dry kibble and canned dog food is typically cooked at a level where a large percentage of nutrients are lost. In standard dry dog food there are also a number of non nutritious and unnatural ingredients such as wheat, grains, Butylated-hydroxyanisole (BHA) or butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). These are typically used to bind the biscuits together, bulk out the food and/ or prevent spoiling. A raw fed diet (when fed properly) not only ensures your dog is getting all natural ingredients but that those simple ingredients are providing 100% of their nutritional needs. There are no fillers, no unnatural colourants, flavourings or preservatives. It’s just simple, well balanced and highly nutritious meat, bone offal and veggies.
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Aren't bones dangerous for my dog to eat?Cooked and dehydrated bones? Yes, because they’re brittle and can splinter as the moisture has been removed. But the ones used in raw feeding, whether you’ve done your research or you’re purchasing pre-prepared complete raw meals are safe. Raw bones are soft, chewy and easy to digest. They’re an essential part of a raw diet as they provide your dog with essential fatty acids and minerals as well as helping to stimulate the production of saliva to prevent plaque build up.
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What about salmonella?In short, ideally your dog’s gut can handle the bacteria no problem as they’re built to prevent harmful bacteria (such as salmonella) from invading the body. Their stomachs are highly acidic and contain natural digestive enzymes to process and help break bacteria down without getting ill. The main reason most people are fearful of the bacteria is for the dog owner, not the dog. But just as you take hygiene protocols when preparing and cooking meat for your own meals, you take the same steps when feeding your pet.
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What are the benefits of feeding my dog Smack dog food?Smack dog food is made with locally sourced, free-range meats and wild-caught fish, which provides a high-quality source of protein for your dog. It is also free from artificial ingredients and is made with organic fruits and vegetables, which can provide a range of vitamins and minerals for your dog's overall health.
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Is Smack dog food safe for my dog to eat?Smack dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and is free from artificial preservatives, colours, and flavours. However, as with any raw food diet, there is a risk of bacterial contamination. It's important to handle the food safely and follow the company's instructions for thawing before serving.
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What flavours of Smack dog food are available?Smack dog food offers a variety of recipes, including chicken, beef, lamb, turkey, and fish-based options. They also have formulations for dogs with specific dietary needs, such as a low-fat option for overweight dogs and a novel protein option for dogs with food sensitivities.
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Where can I buy Smack dog food?Smack dog food is available for purchase online and at select pet stores in Canada and the United States. Check the company's website for a list of retailers near you.
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How do I transition my dog to Smack dog food?Smack recommends transitioning your dog slowly to their food over the course of a week .Start by mixing a small amount of Smack with your dog's current food and gradually increase the amount of Smack over the course of several days. Be sure to monitor your dog's stool and overall health during the transition.
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How should I store Smack dog food?Smack dog food is sold frozen and should be stored in the freezer until ready to serve. When thawing, it's important to follow the company's instructions and thaw the food in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
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Is Smack dog food suitable for all dog breeds?Smack dog food is suitable for most dog breeds, but it's important to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog's diet. Certain breeds may have specific dietary needs or sensitivities that should be taken into consideration.
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Can Smack dog food be used for dogs with allergies?Smack dog food offers a novel protein option for dogs with food sensitivities, which is made with unusual protein sources like kangaroo and goat. However, it's important to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your dog's diet, especially if they have known allergies.
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Is Smack dog food more expensive than other dog foods?Smack dog food is a premium brand and may be more expensive than other dog foods on the market. However, the company uses high-quality, organic ingredients and sources their meats and fish locally, which can justify the higher cost for some pet owners.
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How much Smack dog food should I feed my dog?The recommended serving size of Smack dog food varies depending on your dog's age, weight, and activity level. The company provides feeding guidelines on their website and packaging, but it's important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate serving size for your individual dog.
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Can I mix Smack dog food with kibble or other foods?Smack dog food can be mixed with kibble or other foods, but it's important to keep in mind that raw food and kibble may digest at different rates, which can cause digestive upset. Smack recommends feeding their food separately from kibble and waiting several hours between feedings.
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How long does Smack dog food last once thawed?Once thawed, Smack dog food should be used within 3-5 days. It's important to store the food in the refrigerator and discard any leftovers that have been sitting out for more than 2 hours
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Is Smack dog food appropriate for puppies?Smack dog food offers a puppy-specific formula that is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of growing puppies. However, it's important to consult with a veterinarian before making any significant changes to your puppy's diet.
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Does Smack dog food have any added supplements?Smack dog food is made with a variety of organic fruits and vegetables, which can provide a range of vitamins and minerals. The company also offers a supplement blend that can be added to their food for additional nutritional support.
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Can Smack dog food be used for senior dogs?Smack dog food is suitable for senior dogs, but it's important to consult with a veterinarian to ensure that your dog's nutritional needs are being met. Some senior dogs may require a lower protein or lower fat diet, depending on their health status.
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Is Smack dog food suitable for dogs with dental issues?Smack dog food is made with raw ingredients, which can help promote dental health by reducing plaque buildup. However, some dogs with severe dental issues may have difficulty chewing raw food and may require a softer diet or dental-specific dog food.
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Does Smack dog food offer a grain-free option?Yes, Smack dog food offers several grain-free options, including their fish-based formula and their low-fat formula. These options are made with alternative sources of carbohydrates, such as sweet potato and squash.
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Is Smack dog food environmentally friendly?Smack dog food is committed to sustainability and uses locally sourced, free-range meats and wild-caught fish to reduce their carbon footprint. They also use recyclable packaging and have implemented eco-friendly practices in their production process.
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Does Smack dog food offer any discounts or promotionsSmack dog food occasionally offers promotions and discounts through their website and social media channels. They also offer a subscription service for automatic deliveries, which can provide a discount on the cost of the food.
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Is Smack dog food suitable for small dog breeds?Smack dog food is suitable for small dog breeds, but it's important to ensure that the serving size is appropriate for their size and activity level. Smack offers a feeding calculator on their website that can help determine the appropriate serving size for small dogs.
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Can Smack dog food be used for large dog breeds?Smack dog food is suitable for large dog breeds, but it's important to ensure that the serving size is appropriate for their size and activity level. Smack offers a feeding calculator on their website that can help determine the appropriate serving size for large dogs.
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Is Smack dog food appropriate for breeds with sensitive stomachs?Smack dog food offers novel protein options, which can be beneficial for breeds with sensitive stomachs. However, it's important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the sensitivity and ensure that the diet is appropriate for the individual dog.
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Is Smack dog food appropriate for breeds with skin allergies?Smack dog food offers novel protein options, which can be beneficial for breeds with skin allergies. The company also includes a variety of organic fruits and vegetables that can provide essential vitamins and minerals to support skin health. However, it's important to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause of the allergies and ensure that the diet is appropriate for the individual dog.
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Is Smack dog food appropriate for breeds prone to weight gain?Smack dog food offers low-fat options that can be beneficial for breeds prone to weight gain. However, it's important to ensure that the serving size is appropriate for their size and activity level, and to monitor their weight regularly. Consult with a veterinarian to determine the appropriate diet for dogs that are prone to weight gain.