Correctly storing CBD oil is key to preserving its quality and effectiveness. To maximize the shelf life of your CBD oil, follow these guidelines:

Keep It Cool. Store the oil in a cool place, ideally below room temperature. Avoid areas that experience frequent temperature changes, such as near windows or appliances that generate heat.

Shield From Light. Exposure to light can degrade CBD oil over time. Store the oil in its original container, typically designed to protect it from light, and keep it in a dark cupboard or drawer.

Maintain Airtight Seals. Ensure the container's cap is tight after each use. Exposure to air can affect the quality of CBD oil, so keeping it sealed helps maintain its potency.

Avoid Contamination. Use a clean dropper or spoon to measure out the oil. Doing so prevents contaminants from entering the bottle.

CBD oil for dogs and cats might seem similar, but there are key differences to consider before using the same product for both pets. Both dogs and cats have an endocannabinoid system that responds to CBD, but the formulations, dosages, and carrier oils are often customized to meet each species' specific needs.

CBD products for dogs often have flavors and concentrations suited to dogs' tastes and sizes. Cats, however, usually need different formulations due to their smaller size and unique metabolic rates.

It's best to select an option that's made specifically for your type of pet or consult with a veterinarian before using a CBD oil labeled for dogs on a cat. Vets can give guidance on the safety and efficacy of a particular product for your cat.

It's best to use CBD oil specifically made for pets instead of human CBD oil. Human CBD oil may have higher concentrations and ingredients that aren't safe for dogs. Often, human CBD products contain additives like artificial flavors, sweeteners, or essential oils that can be harmful to dogs. Always check the ingredients list for anything unsafe for dogs.

For your dog's safety and health, choose pet-specific CBD oils. These products aim to meet a dog's specific needs and dosage requirements and usually include instructions to help pet owners administer them safely. It's also a good idea to talk to a veterinarian for personalized guidance on using CBD for your dog.

Pros Of CBD Oil

Many pet owners love buying CBD hemp oil for their dogs because of all the benefits it can offer! From its versatility to its wellness benefits, CBD oil has a lot to offer our furry friends.

It's Federally Legal

As per the 2018 Farm Bill, CBD products are legal as long as the CBD comes from the hemp plant (a kind of cannabis plant). This also means that CBD products must contain 0.3% Delta 9 THC or less to be federally legal. CBD pet products are generally broad spectrum, which means they contain no THC — so as long as they're hemp-derived, they're in the clear!

CBD Hemp Oils Are Versatile

You can give CBD hemp oil to your dog in a handful of ways. You can feed them CBD directly by adding (only a few) drops into their mouth or you can mix it into their food. This versatility is great for pet owners who have specific preferences for feeding their dogs, as not all dogs can have extra treats.

Helps Maintain Overall Wellness

When you give your dog CBD oil, the CBD interacts with their endocannabinoid receptors to help support their Endocannabinoid System (ECS). The ECS is responsible for regulating a lot of your pet's main bodily systems. CBD can help maintain your dog's overall well-being by supporting the ECS.

May Help Ease Environmental Stress

Since it supports your dog's ECS so well, CBD oil does a great job at helping to soothe your dog from uneasiness that may arise as a result of environmental stress. This kind of strain can occur if your dog enters environments that make them uncomfortable. Examples may include areas that have large crowds, loud noises, are affected by storms, and more. This is why so many pet parents give their dogs CBD before going to the vet!

Cons Of CBD Oil

Like all other products, CBD oil has a few potential cons. Thankfully, you can avoid many of these by giving your dog the right amount of CBD and by maintaining a full, well-rounded care routine.

Suggested Serving Recommendations

Since CBD isn't yet approved by the FDA, there are no official serving recommendations for CBD oils (or any CBD products, for that matter). This is why we suggest that you calculate an amount for your dog based on their weight!

We generally recommend between 0.25 mg (regular serving) to 0.5 mg (double serving) of CBD per every 1 lb. of your dog's body weight. Again, please be advised that every pet is different. This is why we believe the best way to find the perfect amount for your dog is by starting them off with a lower amount first to see how they respond.

Potential Side Effects

While CBD oil is generally well-tolerated by most dogs, some may experience side effects (especially if it's their first time trying it). Luckily, any side effects are usually mild and short-lived and may be alleviated with some water and a good nap.

Here are some potential side effects that may accompany the consumption of CBD:

• Sleepiness or fatigue
• Mild upset stomach or diarrhea
• Dry mouth

Remember that every dog is unique and will have its own response to CBD products. We suggest closely watching your dog if it's their first time trying CBD. Dog owners who are unsure if CBD is right for their dogs may want to reach out to their vet before giving any amount to them.

Can't Replace Traditional Medicine

Though CBD does have a lot of great benefits, it's not meant to be a replacement for traditional medicines. The best way to get proper treatment for your dog for any ailment is by visiting or calling your vet. Licensed veterinary medicine workers — like vets, vet assistants, etc. — can give you personalized advice for your dog.

Vets are also the only ones who have licenses to administer treatments to your pets. A vet can help with pain, neurological disorders, and other medical conditions that your dog may be experiencing.

While you wait for your vet's assistance, visit the American Veterinary Medical Association to read more about current research on CBD for dogs and other pets.