CBD (cannabidiol) has grown in popularity in recent years as a result of its possible medicinal properties in both people and animals. CBD for pets, particularly dogs, has piqued the curiosity of pet owners and veterinarians. In this post, we will present a general overview of CBD for pets as well as five potential CBD benefits for dogs.

A Brief Overview of CBD for Pets: CBD (cannabidiol) is a non-psychoactive chemical obtained from the cannabis plant. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) found in animals, including dogs, which regulates a variety of physiological functions. CBD products for pets are primarily sourced from cannabis plants, which are 100% THC free(tetrahydrocannabinol), cannabis’s psychoactive component.

Benefits of CBD for Dogs

1. Alleviates Anxiety and Stress

CBD has been found to have anxiolytic properties, making it useful for dogs experiencing anxiety or stress-related conditions. It may help dogs with separation anxiety, noise phobias, travel anxiety, or general anxiety disorders. Several studies have shown that CBD can potentially reduce anxiety by interacting with serotonin receptors in the brain[^1].

2. Manages Pain and Inflammation

CBD exhibits anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it potentially beneficial for dogs with chronic pain, arthritis, or inflammation-related conditions. CBD may help reduce pain perception and inflammation by interacting with receptors in the ECS and modulating the immune response[^2].

3. Supports Joint Health

As dogs age, they may develop joint issues, such as osteoarthritis, which can affect their mobility and quality of life. CBD may offer potential benefits by reducing inflammation in the joints, thereby providing relief from pain and improving joint function[^3].

4. Enhances Appetite and Digestion

Loss of appetite and digestive issues can be common in dogs, especially when they are undergoing treatments or recovering from illness. CBD has shown promise in stimulating appetite and improving digestion by interacting with receptors in the ECS and regulating appetite-related hormones[^4].

5. Promotes Calmness and Sleep

CBD may help dogs with sleep disorders, restlessness, or insomnia. It has been reported to have sedative effects, which can promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. By acting on receptors in the ECS, CBD may regulate sleep-wake cycles and help dogs achieve a more restful sleep[^5].

In the CBD market for dogs, a variety of products are available to cater to different preferences and needs. These products are specially formulated to deliver CBD in a safe and convenient way for dogs. Some of the common CBD products for dogs include biscuits, treats, and oils.

CBD-Infused Biscuits and Treats

These products are designed to provide a tasty and enjoyable way to administer CBD to dogs. They often come in various flavors and sizes, making it easy to find options that suit your dog’s preferences. CBD-infused biscuits and treats are convenient for daily use and can be incorporated into your dog’s regular routine.

CBD Oils

CBD oils for dogs are typically administered orally. They come in bottles with droppers for precise dosage control. CBD oils are versatile and can be added to your dog’s food or directly administered into their mouth. They provide a flexible option for adjusting the CBD dosage based on your dog’s needs.

It’s important to note that when purchasing CBD products for dogs, it’s crucial to choose reputable brands that provide third-party lab testing to ensure the quality, purity, and accurate CBD content of the products. Consulting with your veterinarian can also help guide you in selecting the most appropriate CBD products for your dog’s specific requirements.

In summary, the CBD market for dogs offers a range of products such as biscuits, treats, and oils. These products provide different administration options to cater to individual preferences and ensure convenient CBD delivery for your furry companion. When choosing CBD products, prioritize reputable brands and consider consulting with your veterinarian for guidance.

Photo by Jozef Fehér

Sources and References:

Campos AC, et al. (2013). Involvement of serotonin-mediated neurotransmission in the dorsal periaqueductal gray matter on cannabidiol chronic effects in panic-like responses in rats. Psychopharmacology, 226(1), 13-24.

Hammell DC, et al. (2016). Transdermal cannabidiol reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviors in a rat model of arthritis. European Journal of Pain, 20(6), 936-948.

Philpott HT, et al. (2017). Attenuation of early phase inflammation by cannabidiol prevents pain and nerve damage in rat osteoarthritis. Pain, 158(12), 2442-2451.

Ignatowska-Jankowska BM, et al. (2020). Cannabidiol-induced lymphopenia does not involve NKT and NK cells. Journal of Immunology, 204(1 Supplement), 195.2-195.2.

Chagas MH, et al. (2013). Cannabidiol can improve complex sleep-related behaviours associated with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder in Parkinson’s disease patients: a case series. Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, 39(5), 564-566.

Disclaimer: Please note that while the sources and references provided are reputable, it’s always advisable to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new supplements or treatments to your pet’s routine.

Discover The Doggie Shop: Treats, Accessories, and Toys for your furry friend. Shop now for quality products to keep your dog happy and entertained! Check out the The Doggie Shop

Twitter, one of the largest social media platforms in the world, has recently become the first major platform to allow cannabis ads. This decision has been a significant victory for the cannabis industry, which has been facing major advertising restrictions and challenges for years.

In 2018, Canada became the first G7 country to legalize recreational cannabis. However, even in places where cannabis is legal, the industry faces many restrictions, particularly when it comes to advertising. Most major social media platforms, including Facebook and Instagram, have strict policies that prohibit the promotion of cannabis-related products and services. Google also prohibits the promotion of cannabis-related products and services, making it nearly impossible for cannabis companies to advertise online.

This has forced many cannabis companies to rely on more traditional forms of advertising, such as billboards and print ads. However, these methods are not only expensive, but they also have limited reach. With more and more people spending their time online, particularly on social media platforms, the inability to advertise on these channels has become a major hindrance to the growth of the industry.

However, Twitter’s recent decision to allow cannabis ads has changed the game. The platform has updated its advertising policy to allow companies that are licensed by the state to advertise legal cannabis products and services. This means that companies can now use Twitter to promote their products to a wider audience, including those who may not have been aware of the legal cannabis industry before.

The move has been welcomed by the cannabis industry, with many companies already taking advantage of the new policy. For example, Cresco Labs, one of the largest cannabis companies in the United States, has already started running ads on Twitter. The company’s ads are focused on education and information, helping to demystify some of the misconceptions surrounding cannabis and its uses.

The decision to allow cannabis ads on Twitter is also significant because it could signal a shift in the broader approach to cannabis advertising. With Twitter setting a precedent, other social media platforms may follow suit, which could have a major impact on the growth of the industry. It could also help to reduce some of the stigma associated with cannabis and its users, as more people are exposed to the industry through advertising and education.

However, there are still some limitations to Twitter’s policy. For example, the platform does not allow companies to advertise products that contain more than 0.3% THC, which is the psychoactive compound in cannabis. This means that companies that sell products such as edibles or concentrates are still unable to advertise on the platform. There are also restrictions on the age of the audience that can be targeted with cannabis ads, with Twitter requiring that companies only advertise to users who are over the age of 21.

Despite these limitations, the decision by Twitter to allow cannabis ads is a major step forward for the industry. It could help to increase awareness and understanding of the legal cannabis industry, and make it easier for companies to reach potential customers online. As more and more states and countries legalize cannabis, it is likely that other platforms will follow Twitter’s lead and update their advertising policies to allow cannabis-related ads. For now, however, Twitter is leading the way, and the cannabis industry is better off for it.

With more US states and cities legalizing marijuana and reducing prohibitions, businesses that wish to keep cannabis out of the workplace face new challenges. In 2022, multiple cannabis regulations were updated in almost all states, and it’s important to keep them in mind when developing a drug policy in the workplace. Moreover, both employers and employees should be aware that medical marijuana laws vary by state. If you are an employer with offices in many states, you must adhere to each state’s medical cannabis rules. If you are an employee that is transferred from one state’s office to another, remember that the new state’s rules should be applied to your medical marijuana status and use.

Laws on Marijuana Use at Work by States

Approximately two-thirds of the US states now have medical marijuana legislation allowing people with serious medical illnesses to consume marijuana with a doctor’s approval. However, just because marijuana is legal in many places does not mean that its use is permitted in the workplace. Employers in most states have the right to terminate, punish, or otherwise penalize an employee who uses marijuana at work or shows up to work under the influence of marijuana, even if they require it to treat a medical condition.

The states are divided when it comes to off-duty medical cannabis use. Approximately 20 states ban employers from discriminating against medical marijuana cardholders or terminating employees who test positive for marijuana while on the job. Moreover, some states additionally require employers to create appropriate accommodations for employees that use medical marijuana to treat a medical condition. For example, employees suffering from glaucoma can be allowed to start work later in the morning to have enough time for treatment. Other states, however, specifically enable employers to terminate employees for using medical marijuana in the workplace. 

In recent years, more states have legalized marijuana for recreational use. However, most of them enable companies to impose zero-tolerance drug policies and dismiss employees for using drugs while on the job. So far, only the state of Maine protects off-duty recreational marijuana usage. To demonstrate how different the regulations are from place to place, you can check the situation regarding cannabis use in the workplace in some of the US states: 

Medical Marijuana Laws in Arizona

Regulations: The Arizona Revised Statutes §§ 36-2801 to 36-2819

Legal: medical marijuana only

Rules for employers: Employers may not discriminate against medical marijuana users based merely on their status as registered cardholders or for testing positive on a marijuana drug test unless it would result in the employer losing money or license under federal law. According to Arizona’s laws and rules, employers have the right to terminate or otherwise penalize workers who use, possess, or are impaired by medical marijuana on company property or during work hours.

Medical Cannabis Laws in California 

Regulations: California Health & Safety Code §§ 11362.5, 11362.7 to 11362.9;  §§ 11362.1 to 11362.45

Legal: medical and recreational marijuana

Rules for employers: Employers are not obligated to accommodate medical or recreational marijuana usage in the workplace. Employers may terminate employees who test positive for marijuana, even if the usage was off-duty and for a legitimate medical reason with a valid medical marijuana card.

Medical Marijuana Laws in Ohio

Regulations: Ohio Revised Code Ann. §§ 3796.01 to 3796.30

Legal: medical marijuana only

Rules for employers: Employers are not compelled to facilitate an employee’s medicinal marijuana usage or possession. Employers may impose zero-tolerance drug policies, and medical marijuana users may be disciplined, fired, or refused employment. Get to know the current regulations on medical marijuana use in the workplace and how to get a medical marijuana card online in the state of Ohio. 

Medical Marijuana Laws in Utah

Regulations: Utah SB 109 (2022), Utah Code Ann. 26-61a

Legal: medical marijuana only 

Rules for employers: Government employers must treat medical cannabis patients the same way as they would treat employees with valid opioid prescriptions. This means that such staff cannot face discrimination unless their use of medical cannabis impairs their performance or creates harmful circumstances. Private employers, on the other hand, are permitted by state law to undertake drug testing to detect cannabis usage. They are also permitted to use their current anti-cannabis rules for employees who test positive. This is not to imply that they must, but they do have this option.

Get to know more detailed information about legal cannabis use for medical purposes in other states on this State Cannabis Laws page. 

Marijuana Laws and Employment FAQs 

1. Is There a Conflict Between State and Federal Laws Regarding the Use of Marijuana at Work?

Yes. Workplace norms are established by the Fair Labor Standards Act, as well as other federal laws and agency regulations. Marijuana is forbidden under federal law. As a result, businesses can freely restrict their employees from using cannabis while on duty. Moreover, sometimes, they can even restrict using cannabis outside the workplace. The case of “Coats v. Dish Network” proves this fact: in 2015, an employee, Brandon Coats, claimed unfair dismissal after testing positive for marijuana, and the Colorado Supreme Court found that form of termination was permissible. Conflicting laws also cause issues in some professions. For example, marijuana is considered to be a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, so doctors cannot lawfully prescribe it. In some states and cases, they are just allowed to “recommend” it. 

2. Can an employer discipline an employee for consuming marijuana on the job?

An employer is not prohibited from taking disciplinary action against an employee if the employee is impaired by cannabis while at work, which means the employee manifests specific articulable symptoms of impairment that: 

• Reduce or diminish his/her performance
• Violate safety and health regulations in the workplace

3. Can an employee be fired for having a noticeable odor of cannabis? 

The smell of cannabis, on its own, is not evidence of articulable symptoms of impairment under Labor Law Section 201-D.

4. Must an employee be dismissed for consuming cannabis or being impaired by cannabis on the job?

No, employers are authorized but not compelled to take action in such cases.

5. What are articulable impairment symptoms?

There is no definite list of impairment symptoms. By “articulable symptoms of impairment” people usually mean objectively visible signs indicating the wrong, reduced, or harmful employee’s execution of the tasks. Employers should be aware that such articulable symptoms may also be an indicator that an employee has a disability protected by federal and state law (e.g., the NYS Human Rights Law), even if the employer is unaware of the impairment or condition. Before taking any measures, employers should get advice from qualified specialists on applicable local, state, and federal laws prohibiting handicap discrimination. For example, the hazardous and careless operation of heavy machinery may be regarded as an articulable indication of impairment.

6. Can an employer drug test an employee if federal law permits it?

No, an employer can not test an employee for cannabis just because it is legal or illegal under federal law. (See, for example, USDOL TEIN 15-90, which explains that neither the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988 nor the regulations enacted under it permit employee drug testing.) However, if federal or state law demands drug testing or makes it an obligatory condition of employment, an employer may drug test an employee.

7. May employers force employees to promise or agree not to consume cannabis, as a compulsory condition of work?

Employers may not ask employees to relinquish their rights under Section 201-D of the Labor Law to hire or continue employment.

8. Can businesses forbid employees from using cannabis outside the workplace? 

No, unless the employer has the authority to do so under Labor Law Section 201-D. (4-a).

9. Can companies forbid employees from using corporate vehicles?

Yes, employers can restrict usage of corporate cars or company property even beyond regular business hours or work shifts.

10. Can companies forbid employees to possess cannabis at work?

Yes, companies may ban workers from bringing cannabis into their property, which includes leased and rented space, business vehicles, and employee-only areas inside such property.

11. Can companies limit marijuana use at the “worksite” for remote employees?

The Department of Labor does not regard an employee’s private house utilized for remote work to be a “worksite” under Labor Law Section 201- D. However, if a person that consumes cannabis demonstrates visible articulable signs of impairment during work hours, as indicated above, an employer may take action and implement a general policy barring marijuana usage during working hours.

Takeaway

There is no one-size-fits-all solution to the issue of workplace marijuana policies. This topic is still in its infancy. Right now, the main problem is uncertainty. In order to avoid expensive mistakes, experts recommend getting legal advice, researching state laws, revising procedures, and educating staff. 

Writer: Alice Sava, a result-driven content manager, writer, and translator with 9 years of experience in a variety of writing styles. Committed to producing exceptional content for Internet blogs, journal publications, TV advertising, and social media.

The Public Health Minister of Thailand plans to distribute one million free cannabis plants in June, when home cultivation and use of the cannabis plant are due to be officially legalized under Thai law for medicinal users.

Public Health Minister Anutin Charnvirakul announced that starting June 9, Thai citizens will no longer be required to obtain a permit to cultivate cannabis in their homes. The cannabis cultivated must be of medical grade and used exclusively for medicinal purposes.

Anutin announced the decision in a Facebook post on Sunday (8 May), in which he outlined the benefits of commercial cultivation.

The sale of cannabis products containing less than 0.2% THC, the psychoactive compound, is currently legal in Thailand.

According to Anutin, cannabis and hemp products could generate up to 10 billion baht in annual revenue if both public and private enterprises are permitted to operate freely under the new regulations.

The minister of public health added that the new rules allow small operators to launch marijuana-related businesses without registering with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), while large-scale operations will continue to require authorization.

Thailand became the first south-east Asian country to legalize medical cannabis in 2018.

Check out this cannabis ice-cream from Black Canyon in Thailand – Video (Instagram)

Switzerland will start adult-use cannabis sales this summer over a trial program that will involve 400 people. On the 19th of April, the Swiss Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH) authorized the first pilot on the sale of cannabis for recreational use.

The initiative is a joint project with the University of Basel and will also take place in the third most popular city in the country, Basel. The study on the legal sale of adult-use cannabis aims to educate to regulate cannabis in the whole country.

The pilot program is intended to provide information and educate consumers about low-risk consumption, knowledge, and benefits of the effects of controlled access to cannabis, and information on consumers’ behavior and physical and mental health.

The cannabis sales trial program will follow strict rules. There will be about 400 pre-selected adult volunteers with previous experience in cannabis consumption will be involved in the pilot, and their state of health will be monitored throughout the trial.

All cannabis products must meet high-quality requirements, come from Swiss organic crops, have to be sold in pharmacies, and can’t be advertised.

The path that brought the pilot on adult-use cannabis sales started in 2016.

In an interview with market intelligence firm Prohibition Partners, Dr. Lavinia Flückiger, co-leader of the study, explained that the project was developed in 2016 and was approved by the local scientific ethics committee in 2017. However, it was never able to start due to the lack of a legal basis. But when the Swiss parliament changed narcotics law in 2021, the project got the green light in August 2021.

According to Dr. Flückiger, recruitment of the participants is expected to take place in August 2022, and the trial program will officially start at the end of the month.

Swiss German daily newspaper Blick reported that volunteers would have access to four cannabis strains and two types of hash available in ten selected pharmacies in Basel produced by Switzerland’s cannabis company Pure Holding AG. Prices of cannabis products will match the ones offered by the illegal market: between $8 and $12 per gram, depending on the product and the level of THC.

The project, which involves authorities and researchers from the local government, the University of Basel, and the University Psychiatric Clinics, Basel, will run for two and a half years.

While cannabis with a THC level below 1% (also known as hemp) is legal, growing, importing, producing, or selling cannabis with a high level of THC is prohibited. Personal consumption of up to 10 grams is tolerated. However, law enforcement officers can fine individuals caught using cannabis with a fixed penalty fine of $100.

Swiss authorities recognize widespread consumption and that the illegal market thrives. Therefore, the launch of an adult-use cannabis sale trial program may be the proper response to fight back against the illicit market and safeguard public health.

In fact, the goal of Swiss drug policy is to minimize drug use and its negative consequences. It is based on the four pillars of prevention, therapy, harm reduction, and repression.

One of the brightest examples of such a drug policy is the Heroin Assisted Treatment Program (HAT), which supplies controlled heroin under medical supervision to a limited number of addicts. The program, introduced in 1994, was meant to keep addicts off the streets and reduce crime. However, it soon became a game changer in Switzerland’s drug policy.

It showed to be an efficient alternative to “zero-tolerance” drug policies as it focused on prevention, harm reduction, medical care, and counseling for the drug addicts and their reintegration into society.

What You Need To Know

• There will only be 400 pre-selected volunteers
• Products must meet a high-quality requirement
• Cannabis must be from Swiss organic crops
• Strictly access only via a pharmacy
• Prices start from $8 / $12 per gram – depending on THC levels.

The scientific approach to testing adult-use cannabis in Switzerland follows a series of attempts to review cannabis legislation all across Europe.

According to a 2022 report, 55% of Europeans support legalizing recreational cannabis.

As New York gets ready for recreational cannabis sales and prepares to open up its first dispensaries by the end of 2022.

The state’s Cannabis Control Board has approved and passed a bill last month that will allow New Yorkers with convictions related to cannabis to be eligible for a retail/cultivation license, who will be among some of the first!

The new legislation also provides existing hemp farmers in New York with the opportunity to apply for a license to grow in the 2022 season. If you are currently own and operate a hemp farm in New York and you want to apply for a license, you can do so here.

Mr. Alexander said he expected between 100 and 200 licenses to go to people who were convicted of a marijuana-related offense before the drug was legalized, or those who have “a parent, guardian, child, spouse, or dependent” with a marijuana conviction.

“I am proud to sign this bill, which positions New York’s farmers to be the first to grow cannabis and jumpstart the safe, equitable and inclusive new industry we are building,” Governor Hochul said. “New York State will continue to lead the way in delivering on our commitment to bring economic opportunity and growth to every New Yorker in every corner of our great state.”   

“I could press the green button right now and have 40 dispensaries online,” said Mr. Alexander, speaking of the state’s extant medical dispensaries. “But instead we’ve decided that the folks who have been most impacted actually have the space and the real runway to participate in a meaningful way.”

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the policy, which is what she calls the Seeding Opportunity Initiative, is an effort to make sure communities that have been impacted the most by marijuana prohibition have a head start in the state’s multi-billion-dollar industry. Most states that have legalized marijuana have banned people with drug felonies from entering the legal market.

The state also hopes that some in the existing black market — sometimes known as “legacy” candidates — may be persuaded to apply for licenses instead because some could be considered equity applicants.

Chris Alexander is the executive director of the state’s Office of Cannabis Management.

He also went on to say that he expects the first handful of dispensaries to be opened by the end of 2022. The state has not set a limit on the available amount of retail licenses for the time being, officials said it all depends on market demands.

You can read more on the bill and changes, here.

Photo by Florian Wehde

If you bring your herb everywhere with you, keep reading. Whether it’s in the form of a vape or a couple of joints – 99.9% of the time I leave the house I have my dry herb vape or a few joints stashed away for a fun and anxiety-free day.

I’ve used a handful of other smell-proof storage solutions in the past although neither of them isn’t constructed like this. The Alien Tech smell-proof storage bag gives you all that and with the multiple storage compartments it gives you more options with what you’re able to bring along with you, there’s even a spot for your rolling tray so you’re able to roll up anywhere. It allows me to conveniently store my papers, grinder, and herbs all in an easy-to-carry protective case.

The exterior fabric is constructed with heavy-duty nylon and waterproofing material to safeguard your herbs and accessories from the weather or any accidents. It’s fitted with an activated carbon filter system that provides odor-absorbing technology to ensure ultimate discretion during your travels. When Alien Tech launches a product they spare no expenses during the product design phase to provide you with the best experience possible within their collection.

Thanks to the child safety lock your precious herbs, vape cartridges, or whatever accessories you decide to store will be safe from unwanted visitors, roommates, and children. In fact, some US states require medical patients and recreational users to keep their herbs locked away from children by law.

Product Highlights

• Perfect for carrying vapes, jars and papers
• Designed to house the Alien Tech range
• Child safety lock
• Odor-absorbing
• Waterproof
• 4 adjustable compartments

Traveling With Medical Cannabis In Australia

Medical cannabis in Australia has come a very long way in recent years since its legalization in 2016, there are now more than 300 products and 100,000+ patients Australia-wide. If you are a patient, you might be wondering – Can I travel with my medical cannabis in Australia? Yes, you can! This only applies to patients who hold a valid prescription from their licensed GP / Doctor.

Long as your medication is legally prescribed by a licensed GP, just like any other prescribed medication, you have the right to freely travel with cannabis. This includes all forms of cannabis whether it be dried flower or oils, it’s legal. All legally prescribed cannabis (Oil and flower) packages will display the pharmacy label, doctors’ instructions, and of course your prescription.

To minimize complications while traveling, we would advise you to do the following:

• Request a written letter from your clinic nurse or Doctor outlining the prescribed medication.
• Keep your medicine in its original packing with your pharmacy label and prescription is visible.
• Take it with you in your carry-on bag.
• Ask your Doctor or Clinic nurse for a TGA approval letter.

To avoid even further complications and anxiety while traveling interstate, I highly recommend you consider an odor-absorbing bag like the one in this review from Alien Tech. It’s big enough for all your essentials and convenient enough to store in your carry-on or a duffle bag, as mentioned above these bags will ensure you travel with peace of mind and allow you to go about your business.

To find out more about what Alien Tech is all about, head on over to www.alientech420.com and for the odor-absorbing bag – shop here.