As a bona fide fashionista and dog mom of two, I consider myself a pretty savvy shopper. I‘m always on the hunt for the latest and greatest products to keep my pups looking and feeling their best. So when I noticed my older dog, Charlie, starting to show signs of anxiety, I knew I had to find a solution that was both effective and stylish.
That‘s when I discovered The Anxious Pet, a chic new brand that creates CBD oils, treats, and other products specifically designed to calm nervous pets. Intrigued by their vet-approved formulas and Instagram-worthy packaging, I decided to give them a try. And let me tell you, I was not disappointed!
In this post, I‘ll be sharing my honest review of The Anxious Pet products, as well as some tips for managing dog anxiety that I‘ve learned along the way. I‘ll also dive into the science behind CBD and compare The Anxious Pet to other popular brands on the market. By the end, you‘ll have all the info you need to decide if these trendy calming aids are right for your furry friend. Let‘s get started!
What is The Anxious Pet?
The Anxious Pet is a pet wellness company that specializes in CBD-infused products for dogs and cats. Their mission is to help pets live happier, more peaceful lives by providing natural relief from anxiety, stress, and other health issues.
All of The Anxious Pet‘s products are veterinarian-formulated using high-quality, organic ingredients like full-spectrum hemp oil, chamomile, and L-theanine. They also undergo third-party lab testing to ensure purity and safety.
But The Anxious Pet isn‘t just another CBD brand jumping on the bandwagon. They truly go above and beyond to create products that are both effective and enjoyable for pets. Their treats come in mouthwatering flavors like bacon and peanut butter, while their oils are easy to administer and fast-acting.
The Anxious Pet was founded by entrepreneur Brock Weatherup after he struggled to find a reliable solution for his own dog‘s anxiety. Inspired to help other pets and their owners, he teamed up with top veterinarians and animal behaviorists to develop a line of premium calming products backed by science.
Today, The Anxious Pet offers a range of CBD oils, chews, balms, and bundles designed to target different types of anxiety in dogs and cats. They‘ve also become a trusted resource for pet parents seeking information and guidance on managing their companion‘s stress.
Why I Chose The Anxious Pet for My Dog‘s Anxiety
As I mentioned, my introduction to The Anxious Pet came when I noticed my 10-year-old Lab mix, Charlie, starting to show signs of anxiety. He would pace and pant whenever I left the house, and he became increasingly reactive to noises like thunder and the vacuum cleaner.
I knew I wanted to try a natural remedy before resorting to prescription meds, so I started researching CBD for dogs. I was immediately impressed by The Anxious Pet‘s commitment to quality and transparency. Their products are made with organic, full-spectrum hemp oil, which is considered the gold standard in terms of potency and efficacy.
I also loved that The Anxious Pet offers such a wide range of products to suit different preferences and needs. Charlie is pretty picky about his treats, so I appreciated having the option of flavored soft chews or an odorless oil that I could mix into his food.
Another big selling point for me was The Anxious Pet‘s veterinarian involvement. As a pet parent, it gives me peace of mind to know that their products were developed with input from animal health experts. I feel like I can trust that the ingredients and dosages are safe and appropriate for my dog.
Finally, I have to mention the brand‘s aesthetic. I know it may seem superficial, but I‘m a sucker for cute packaging. The Anxious Pet‘s branding is just so fun and stylish, from the colorful illustrations on their treat jars to the chic, minimalist labels on their oils. It‘s the kind of product I‘m proud to display on my counter and share with fellow pet parents.
My Experience Using The Anxious Pet Products
I decided to start Charlie on The Anxious Pet‘s Relax & Roll Soft Chews and the 400mg Hemp Oil for Dogs. Here‘s how it went:
The Relax & Roll chews were a hit right off the bat. Charlie loved the bacon flavor and would do just about anything for one of these treats. I started giving him one chew per day, usually in the morning or before a stressful situation like a vet visit.
Within a few days, I noticed Charlie seemed more relaxed overall. He was less restless when I left for work and quicker to settle down after being startled by a loud noise. The chews also seemed to improve his sleep, which is a big deal since he‘s an older dog and sometimes struggles with joint pain at night.
The hemp oil took a bit more getting used to, simply because Charlie wasn‘t a fan of the taste on its own. Mixing it into his food did the trick though! I started with a low dose of 0.25mL twice a day and gradually increased to 0.5mL as I gauged his response.
The oil definitely helped take the edge off Charlie‘s anxiety, especially in combination with the daily chews. He seemed more focused and confident on our walks, and his reactivity to triggering noises decreased noticeably. I also appreciate that the oil comes with a marked dropper for easy, mess-free dosing.
It‘s important to note that while Charlie responded very well to The Anxious Pet products, every dog is different. It may take some trial and error to find the right dosage and combination of products for your pup. I recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing until you see the desired effects.
I also made sure to pair the CBD with other calming aids like a snug-fitting Thundershirt and plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. The Anxious Pet products were a key piece of Charlie‘s anxiety management plan, but they work best in conjunction with a holistic approach.
Overall, I couldn‘t be happier with my experience using The Anxious Pet products. They‘ve made a real difference in Charlie‘s quality of life and have given me valuable peace of mind. I love knowing that I‘m supporting his health and happiness with safe, natural ingredients that he actually enjoys taking!
The Science Behind CBD for Pet Anxiety
At this point, you might be wondering: how exactly does CBD help with anxiety in pets? Let‘s take a closer look at the science.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in hemp plants. Unlike its cousin THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won‘t get your pet "high." Instead, it interacts with the body‘s endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating mood, sleep, appetite, and other functions.
When it comes to anxiety, research suggests that CBD may help by:
- Increasing levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes calm and wellbeing
- Reducing the stress response in the amygdala, an area of the brain involved in processing fear and anxiety
- Promoting neurogenesis, or the growth of new brain cells, in the hippocampus, which is important for memory and learning
While most studies on CBD have been conducted in humans and rodents, there‘s growing evidence to support its use in veterinary medicine. For example:
- A 2018 study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that CBD oil helped reduce pain and improve mobility in dogs with osteoarthritis.
- A 2019 study in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association showed that CBD may help reduce seizure frequency in dogs with epilepsy.
- A 2020 survey of veterinarians found that 82% had discussed CBD with their clients, and 61% had recommended it for pain management or anxiety relief.
However, it‘s important to note that research on CBD for pets is still in its early stages. While many anecdotal reports and small studies are promising, we need more large-scale clinical trials to fully understand its effects and potential risks.
Dr. Trina Hazzah, a veterinary oncologist and founder of Green Nile LLC, puts it this way: "While I am a huge advocate for the use of cannabis in veterinary medicine, I think it‘s crucial that we rely on data and science rather than anecdotal evidence or personal bias."
That‘s why I appreciate companies like The Anxious Pet that prioritize science-based formulations and veterinarian input. By combining high-quality CBD with other research-backed ingredients like L-theanine and chamomile, they‘re offering a safe, effective option for pet parents looking to try a natural anxiety solution.
Of course, it‘s always a good idea to talk to your own vet before starting your pet on any new supplement or treatment. They can help you weigh the potential benefits and risks and determine the best course of action for your individual pet‘s needs.
Tips for Managing Dog Anxiety
In addition to using calming aids like CBD, there are many other things you can do to help your anxious pup feel more secure and relaxed. Here are a few of my favorite tips:
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Stick to a consistent routine. Dogs thrive on predictability, so try to keep mealtimes, walks, and bedtime as consistent as possible. This helps reduce anxiety by providing a sense of stability and security.
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Create a safe space. Designate a quiet, cozy area of your home where your dog can retreat when feeling overwhelmed. This could be a crate with a soft bed or a quiet room with a few favorite toys. Encourage your dog to use this space by offering treats and praise.
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Provide plenty of exercise. Regular physical activity is essential for reducing stress and burning off anxious energy. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day, such as brisk walks, jogging, or playtime in the backyard.
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Try calming aids. In addition to CBD, there are many other natural calming aids that may help soothe your dog‘s anxiety. These include pheromone diffusers, pressure wraps like the Thundershirt, and calming music or white noise.
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Practice counter-conditioning. If your dog is fearful of specific triggers like loud noises or strangers, you can help them develop positive associations through counter-conditioning. This involves exposing them to the trigger at a low intensity while providing high-value treats or toys. Over time, they learn that the scary thing predicts good things, and their anxiety decreases.
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Consider professional help. If your dog‘s anxiety is severe or persists despite your best efforts, it may be time to consult with a professional. A certified dog trainer or veterinary behaviorist can help you develop a customized treatment plan and provide support along the way.
Remember, managing dog anxiety is a process that requires patience and consistency. It may take some trial and error to find what works best for your pup, but don‘t get discouraged! With time and practice, you can help your anxious dog learn to cope with their fears and enjoy life to the fullest.
FAQ About The Anxious Pet
To wrap up my review, I want to address some common questions and concerns about The Anxious Pet products. If you‘re considering trying CBD for your pet‘s anxiety, this info may help you make a more informed decision.
Is CBD safe for pets?
When used properly, CBD is generally considered safe for dogs and cats. However, it‘s important to choose a high-quality product from a reputable brand like The Anxious Pet. Look for products that are third-party tested for purity and potency and free from harmful additives or contaminants.
It‘s also crucial to use the correct dosage for your pet‘s size and weight. Giving too much CBD can cause side effects like drowsiness, dry mouth, and changes in appetite or blood pressure. Always start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed under veterinary guidance.
Can I give my pet human CBD products?
No, you should never give your pet CBD products intended for human use. These may contain ingredients that are toxic to animals, such as THC or xylitol sweetener. Always choose a CBD product specifically formulated for pets, like those offered by The Anxious Pet.
How long does it take for CBD to work?
The effects of CBD can vary depending on the individual pet and the severity of their anxiety. Some pets may show improvement within a few days of starting CBD, while others may take a few weeks to respond.
In general, the effects of CBD oil or chews can be seen within 30-60 minutes of administration and last for 4-8 hours. For best results, give CBD consistently as part of your pet‘s daily wellness routine.
Can I use CBD with other medications?
CBD may interact with certain medications, including those processed by the liver or that thin the blood. If your pet is on any other medications or supplements, it‘s important to talk to your vet before starting CBD. They can advise you on potential interactions and help you adjust dosages if needed.
What if CBD doesn‘t work for my pet?
While many pets respond well to CBD, it‘s not a miracle cure for every case of anxiety. If you‘ve been using CBD consistently for several weeks without improvement, it‘s time to consult with your vet. They may recommend additional calming aids, behavior modification, or prescription medications to help manage your pet‘s anxiety.
It‘s also worth noting that The Anxious Pet offers a 60-day money-back guarantee on all of their products. So if you‘re not satisfied with the results, you can return the unused portion for a full refund.
The Bottom Line
As a self-proclaimed "crazy dog lady" and lover of all things stylish and effective, I can honestly say that The Anxious Pet gets my seal of approval. Their CBD products have made a noticeable difference in my dog Charlie‘s anxiety levels and overall quality of life. Plus, their chic packaging and fun flavors make giving CBD feel like a special treat rather than a chore.
Of course, every pet is unique, and what works for Charlie may not be the perfect solution for your furry friend. But if you‘re looking for a safe, natural way to help your pet cope with anxiety or stress, I highly recommend giving The Anxious Pet a try.
Just remember to always use CBD under veterinary guidance and in combination with other calming aids and training techniques. With a little patience and TLC, you can help your anxious pet learn to navigate this big scary world with confidence and joy.
Have you tried CBD for your pet‘s anxiety? What was your experience? Let me know in the comments below!
