Hemp Myths & Misconceptions

These days, more and more people are turning to holistic healing methods and healthcare approaches. If holistic health is so good for humans, why not let our furry friends benefit from it as well?

With the rise in hemp products for pets, there has also been a rise in confusion and misinformation. In this blog, we’ll debunk common hemp myths and misconceptions.

Hemp Seed Oil = CBD Oil

While they both stem from the same plant, hemp seed oil and CBD oil are actually quite different. Both come from Cannabis Sativa, a hemp plant that is rich in a non-psychoactive ingredient called cannabidiol (CBD).

CBD oil comes from the flowers, leaves, and stalks of the hemp plant. Hemp seed oil, on the other hand, is extracted purely from the hemp seeds. The seeds do not have CBD, but they do contain several healthy nutrients and fatty acids which can benefit both you and your pooch.

Hemp Oil = Hemp Seed Oil

“Hemp oil” is occasionally used as a catch-all term referring to both CBD oil and hemp seed oil, since they both technically come from the same hemp plant. Other times, “hemp oil” is used as shorthand for “hemp seed oil.”

Whenever you’re researching or purchasing products referring to “hemp oil,” make sure it’s clear which kind of oil they are referring to. Hemp seed oil and full-spectrum hemp/CBD oil are products that, while similar in name, serve different purposes.

Hemp is Illegal

Much of the confusion about hemp’s legality comes from the confusion regarding the plant itself. While hemp and marijuana are both varieties of the same cannabis plant, they are not the same—kind of like how dogs and wolves are different breeds of the same species.

By definition, hemp plants contain less than 0.3% THC, which is the psychoactive ingredient found in marijuana. Since the THC content is so low, it is legal to buy and sell regulated hemp products in all 50 states thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill.

Hemp Seed Oil Will Get Your Pet High

Hemp seeds do not contain THC, the ingredient that would cause one to get high. Hemp seed oil contains trace amounts of THC at most, with small amounts possibly being introduced during the manufacturing process.

Because hemp seed oil contains little to no THC whatsoever, you don’t have to worry about Fido inadvertently indulging in some illegal recreational activities—hemp seed oil, like CBD oil, will not get you or your dog high.

Hemp Seed Oil is Good for Cooking

Because it’s rich in nutrients like Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, hemp seed oil is a healthy addition to your diet as well as your dog’s. You can add it to salad dressings, sauces, soups, and more; you can also mix it in with your pup’s kibble.

It’s important to note that hemp seed oil should only be added to foods after cooking. This is because heating the hemp seeds destroys the nutritional benefits, and may cause the oil to go rancid.

Hemp Doesn’t Have Real Benefits

The benefits of hemp are more than just a placebo effect. With Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), protein, Vitamin E, and healthy minerals, hemp seeds are incredibly healthy for both you and your four-legged friend.

Benefits of hemp seed oil include:

Promote skin health
Joint and mobility support
Support heart health
Digestion and weight management
Support a healthy immune system
Support normal inflammatory pathways

The More Hemp, The Better

As with anything, moderation is key. Hemp may not necessarily have side effects, but it’s always good to start with small doses to see how your dog reacts. No matter how healthy an ingredient is, it’s always possible that a dog could have or develop an allergy. Additionally, consider that the high fat content in hemp could lead to diarrhea or an upset stomach.

The standard recommendation is to give your dog 1 teaspoon of hemp seed oil per 1.2 pounds of food. You can also follow the dosage instructions on the label. Monitor your dog for any side effects, and if he responds well, you can gradually increase the serving size.

It’s never a bad idea to consult with your vet before introducing any new foods or ingredients to your dog’s diet—especially if he is taking any medications that may not mix well.

PetHonesty’s Hemp Products

All of PetHonesty’s hemp products contain hemp seed oil; we do not currently sell any CBD products.

PetHonesty’s hemp products include:

Salmon Oil with Hemp. One serving contains 1,230mg of Omega-3’s, promoting healthy skin and joints.
Hemp Mobility Chews, which help with general joint discomfort and promote flexibility and mobility.
Hemp Calming Chews, a powerful combination of ingredients such as chamomile, ginger root, passionflower, and hemp oil, which work together to soothe an anxious pup.