Category: CBD

5 Common Sudden Strange Dog Behavior Symptoms (and What to Do)

.

This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

.

When we think of dogs, we tend to imagine a happy, goofy companion that loves to play and, most of all, loves to sit right by our side. A running joke in the dog-parent community is the fact that our pooches absolutely lack personal space and it is usually impossible to even go to the bathroom in peace. What most people don’t realize is that our canine companions can experience emotional issues like stress, anxiety, and depression. What’s more, because the powers that be failed to give dogs the ability to talk, the only way they can get our attention to alert us that something is wrong is by acting out in some very strange ways.

.

Why Do Dogs Start Behaving Strangely Overnight?

More often than not, if your dog’s behavior is normal and he is otherwise in good health, a sudden change in behavior could indicate that your pup is experiencing stress and/or anxiety. And here’s the thing about anxiety—we can’t control it most of the time and we have no idea where it comes from. The same is true for our dogs when they start feeling anxious as a result of being left on their own for extended periods of time or due to a lack of exercise or a change in environment. So, it’s not that they have suddenly become anxious or unwell; it’s more that their symptoms have become severe enough for them to seek help by getting our attention, or they could also be self-soothing by using bizarre behavior as a coping mechanism.

If you notice any of the following strange behaviors in your dog, then they are sending you a signal that something is awry, and you should take action right away to stop the problem worsening.

.

1. Your Dog Seems to Be Unable to Focus

If your seemingly intelligent dog starts randomly distracting himself and is unable to focus on one task (like a game of fetch) he could be trying to release pent-up stress. A common displacement behavior is pacing and obsessively sniffing the ground, or compulsively licking paws. If you notice that your dog is suddenly acting out in this way, then it is likely he is suffering from a bout of anxiety. At this stage, you should make a mental note of any poignant changes that have taken place regarding your dog’s routine or living environment and try to restore normality as best as possible.

2. Obsessive Compulsive Behavior

Sometimes a pet will obsessively scratch himself or pace around as he is struggling to deal with anxiety. This is often the result of an impending event, such as fireworks or you leaving for a trip (trust me, they just know). The problem is this kind of behavior can end up being quite harmful to your dog, especially if they are scratching themselves raw.

3. They Suddenly Forget Where to Go Potty

A common sign of stress or anxiety in dogs is peeing in the house in a particular spot even though they are completely housebroken. This is a major warning sign that something isn’t right and if you notice that your dog pees in the same place every time you leave them alone, it is a clear indication of separation anxiety. Please note: this is not the same as incontinence. If your dog isn’t capable of controlling their bladder at all, then you need to visit your vet ASAP as it could be the start of a serious disease.

4. Clingy Behavior

Some dogs need their own space while others love to cuddle close to you at all times. This is one of their lovable traits, as we rely on our dogs for reassurance and affection as much as they do us. But, if your dog has suddenly become super clingy and whiney when he can’t hop onto your lap, then this indicates a problem that needs to be addressed. Pandering to a dog’s negative behavior is only going to reinforce and worsen the issue, not improve it.

5. Aggression

If your otherwise docile pet suddenly becomes aggressive this could be an indication that he is in pain. Your first step should be to take him to the vet to rule out any serious injuries. If the behavior continues, but your dog isn’t sick, it is likely that the aggression is fear-based and could stem from anxiety.

There are many other strange behaviors that can indicate stress or anxiety, but the above are not as common as others and therefore are easily missed.

.

How to Overcome These Issues

Now that you understand where your dog’s bizarre behaviors are potentially coming from, it’s time to decide what steps you are going to take to correct the problem. It is worth noting that a combination of tactics to alleviate stress and anxiety work better than using a single method.

.

CBD Oil

CBD oil is an excellent natural remedy that has powerful healing properties when it comes to treating issues like pain or anxiety. There is already a substantial amount of evidence that shows it can alleviate a range of negative symptoms. Thanks to medical research and CBD oil’s increasing popularity as an alternative medicine, we can only expect more positive news regarding its therapeutic potential in the coming years.

Many dog owners are now choosing to treat anxiety in dogs with CBD oil as it is entirely plant-based and offers a wealth of benefits including anti-inflammatory properties. Many mainstream veterinarians are now advocating the use of CBD to treat a range of canine ailments, primarily anxiety.

Crate Training

If your dog has suddenly started chewing or destroying things around the house, then you could consider crate training. When done properly, it offers your dog a safe haven where they can go to seek respite from their stress. It will also stop them from engaging in destructive behavior that could harm them.

Behavioral Training

If you feel that your dog’s anxiety or strange behavior is getting out of control, it might be time to consult a behavioral therapist. Dogs are pack animals and they need to see you as their pack leader in order to listen and obey you when you tell them to stop baring their teeth or chewing up your favorite pair of shoes.

As always, before you take matters into your own hands, always try to seek professional advice on what you can do to eliminate your dog’s negative behavior.

.

Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

A Step-by-step Guide on How to Make CBD Tincture

.

This article was originally published on SundayScaries.

.

Research has shown that CBD oils have been used in more recent years to help people and animals with a plethora of mental and physical illnesses. Hemp oil differs from CBD oil in that it contains no cannabinoids. Hemp oil and CBD oil are derived from the hemp plant, but they come from different parts of the plant.

If you’ve ever bought a bottle of CBD oil tincture, you know how expensive it can be. To lower costs, we wanted to share with you a couple of ways you could make your own. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make CBD tincture!

.

Is it Legal?

Unfortunately, not everyone will be able to make their own CBD tincture. You do need to live in a state where cannabis is legal, as these methods require you to use the cannabis plant in the recipe. President Trump passed a farm bill in December of 2018 that you can take a look at to help you understand how CBD is legal and the future of cannabis in the United States.

CBD is legal in most states, and doctors may even suggest it to their patients as a natural medicine route for alleviating things like pain or anxiety. Check to see if your state has legalized CBD and cannabis use before getting started with the recipes.

.

What Strains to Use

There are plenty of different strains available, and they’re good for different things. Consider what you’ll be using the tincture for before choosing a strain. Pay attention to the THC to CBD ratio when looking for a strain to use for a CBD tincture. If you don’t want to feel any euphoric effects, opt for one with little to no THC.

  • If you struggle with headaches, anxiety, or inflammation, you’d do best to use a strain of ACDC.
  • Targeting stress and anxiety is what a Harlequin strain will do. It’s known for calming people down, but it’s good to keep in mind that even though it has a high CBD content, it also has a high THC content.
  • If you want something that won’t give you the effects of feeling high, consider a strain of Charlotte’s Web. It’s one of the most popular strains in the world and is great if you struggle with eating disorders.
  • Harle-Tsu is the best fit for people looking for pain relief. It’s known for having a high CBD amount while having less than one percent of THC. In addition to helping with pain, this strain also helps with inflammation. Due to its low THC content, this strain is also good for those that don’t want the effects of feeling inebriated.

.

Two Methods of Making CBD Tincture

The two methods we’ll be covering today are the oil method and the ethanol method. Please follow these directions as closely as possible to get the best homemade CBD tincture.

Ethanol Method

Some people will call this the alcohol method because it uses ethanol. Just about anyone can use this method, and it’s great if you’ve never made CBD oil before. You don’t need any special equipment or set of skills to make CBD oil this way.

The two main reasons you want to use alcohol is because it won’t leave a gross smell or taste in the final product. Follow the directions below to make CBD oil this way!

What you’ll need:
  • Hemp
  • Ceramic bowl
  • Alcohol
  • Stove
  • Wooden spoon
  • Straining bag/sieve
  • Double boiler
  • Container for the CBD tincture
Instructions:
  1. Get your preferred strain of hemp and place it in a ceramic bowl
  2. Pour in the alcohol until the hemp is covered
  3. Stir continuously for around six minutes
  4. Take your spoon to remove the resin
  5. Use your sieve or straining bag as a filter, squeezing as much out as you can
  6. Repeat step five until you think all of the oil is out
  7. Take the oil extract and pour it into your double boiler
  8. Put the double boiler on the stove until you begin to see bubbles
  9. Keep doing this until all of the alcohol has evaporated
  10. With a low flame, allow it to simmer for around half an hour
  11. Mix the substance in your double boiler
  12. Once it’s cooled, transfer into an appropriate container with a proper seal

.

Oil Method

Before you start with the oil method, you’ll need to choose a carrier oil that you prefer. There are benefits from different oils like sunflower oil, coconut oil, and more. The oil method is much more time consuming, but many people prefer it over the alcohol method. Choose which oil you like best and follow the directions below for your own homemade CBD oil!

What you’ll need:
  • Carrier oil
  • Hemp
  • Oven
  • Jar
  • A pan
  • Stove
  • Water
  • Towel
  • Thermometer
  • Cheesecloth
  • Container for CBD oil
Instructions:
  1. Using your choice of cannabis, place the buds in the oven at 220 degrees for an hour and a half
  2. Once cooled, use a grinder to grind up the buds and separate the stems
  3. Take your jar and mix in the ground up hemp with the carrier oil you chose
  4. Make sure the oil covers the hemp completely
  5. The amount of oil you use depends on how potent you’d like the final product to be—more oil will make it less potent and vice versa
  6. Put water in a pan and place on the stove
  7. Place the jar with the mixture inside the pan until the water begins to boil
  8. Make sure the jar has a lid to keep the contents secure
  9. Take the jar off the heat and place it on a towel
  10. Take the temperature of the oil, making sure it’s reached at least 200 degrees
  11. Place it back in the pan and continue letting it “cook” for a few hours on a low heat
  12. Check occasionally to make sure the water hasn’t evaporated
  13. After three hours, turn the stove off and allow the mixture to sit for an additional three hours while the CBD continues to extract from the cannabis
  14. Repeat steps 11-13 again and then leave the oil overnight
  15. The next day, take a cheesecloth to strain the extract into a proper container and store with a tight lid

.

Final Words

If after reading this you’re feeling a bit intimidated, that’s normal. If it all seems too much, you can always buy a bottle of CBD oil online. Your finished oil can now be ingested in several ways. The most popular ways are orally, topically, or with a vape pen. Following either set of directions above exactly will get you a much more cost-efficient bottle of CBD oil to help you with pain, anxiety, stress, or whatever ailments you choose to use it for! Good luck!

What Are the Rules about CBD and Alcohol?

.

This article by Madeleine Taylor was originally published on SundayScaries.

.

Most medications, whether prescription or over-the-counter, come with warnings about mixing with alcohol. This is because both alcohol and medicines alter a person’s brain chemistry and if drugs are mixed with alcohol, it can have an unpredictable effect on the brain and body. The wrong mix of medication and alcohol can be fatal.

The awareness of the dangers of mixing medication and alcohol has led many people to ask if it’s safe to mix CBD and alcohol. The truth is, mixing hemp or CBD oil and alcohol can actually prove helpful for some people in an indirect manner. What’s more, using CBD oil can help a person curb their craving for alcohol, making it an effective treatment for alcoholism for some people.

.

CBD and Alcohol

Though more research is needed, like with cannabis, there is some evidence that using CBD and then drinking can result in a lower blood alcohol content. This means you can drink the same amount of alcohol as usual but suffer less of a toxic effect on the body. Some believe CBD reduces the risk for alcohol poisoning—though nobody would suggest you take CBD and then binge drink just for the sake of testing the theory.

One study showed that transdermal CBD patches applied to rodents significantly reduced the brain damage associated with drinking too much alcohol. It could be that CBD protects the brain from the dangers of alcohol, which means it could be safer to enjoy an alcoholic beverage without concern for the long-term effects.

Keep in mind, this doesn’t mean you won’t get drunk, nor does it make it safe to drink and then operate a vehicle, or to drink in large quantities. However, there is evidence that CBD, which comes from the cannabis plant, enhances function after drinking and slows a person’s response time to alcohol. CBD also balances out the reaction to alcohol from a reward standpoint. This means it could prevent someone from developing an addiction to alcohol because they do not experience that exciting rush from drinking.

There is also some evidence that the positive effects of mixing, say, a tincture that contains high CBD and alcohol could extend beyond the brain into other parts of the body. One study showed that CBD protected the livers of mice from exposure to alcohol.

The positive effects—or reduction of negative effects—when mixing alcohol and CBD has led to some savvy bartenders creating CBD-infused cocktails. Though this is illegal in many areas and has yet to catch on so far in any widespread manner, it’s likely that, as more people discover the benefits of CBD oil and other CBD products, more and more businesses will use it to enhance and market their products.

.

Using CBD to Treat Alcoholism

Perhaps the most notable link between CBD and alcohol is the potential for the compound to help those with an addiction to alcohol. This is the case whether a person has developed full-blown alcoholism, or they just tend to overdrink but haven’t yet made it to the point of having an addiction. Essentially, CBD can help a person have a healthier relationship with alcohol.

One of the biggest challenges alcoholics face is their withdrawal symptoms when they stop drinking. They not only give up the rush alcohol produces in their body, but their body will respond in negative ways. For instance, many people who are heavy drinkers and stop find they develop a tremor. Alcoholics going through withdrawal also tend to experience a general sense of nervousness, insomnia, restlessness, anxiety, nausea, and irritability.

CBD has been shown to ease these symptoms in a variety of situations and could be an effective tool for helping a person kick their addiction to alcohol long-term. Not to mention the cost considerations for treating alcoholism. Many people would benefit from spending time in a long-term care facility to help them deal with their addiction, but these places are often cost-prohibitive. CBD is an affordable option for people who want to break their addiction to alcohol but don’t have the money to invest in an inpatient program.

CBD helps people who are struggling with alcohol and makes it easier to overcome their addiction by supplementing what the body can no longer do properly because of the damage from long-term over-drinking. It also substitutes the feelings produced by drinking. CBD acts as a natural “replenishment” of the body’s depleted supply of endocannabinoids, which are erased over the course of alcohol abuse. It can also reduce cravings for alcohol as a person goes through detox.

CBD can be helpful for getting a person through withdraw and then for helping them avoid the temptation to drink once they’ve kicked their drinking habit.

Unfortunately, the stigma that still surrounds CBD has kept it out of the hands of many people suffering from alcoholism. Too many people assume that using CBD to treat alcoholism is just trading “one drug for another.” Others falsely believe that CBD is even more dangerous than alcohol or that it will produce psychoactive effects and not allow a person to recover from alcoholism in their normal functioning state.

The truth is CBD is not psychoactive. There are a number of misunderstandings and myths out there about CBD and too many people link it to marijuana and THC because it is derived from a similar source. CBD does not get you high or stoned. It does not interfere negatively with your body’s natural ability to perform and, as a matter of fact, many people find it has a positive effect on their performance. People who are not struggling with alcoholism use CBD to help them focus, feel more relaxed, and to meet the demands of everyday life in their optimal condition.

If you are struggling to overcome alcoholism or you’re wondering if CBD can help you approach alcohol consumption in a healthier manner, it might be time to give it a try.

Eight Signs of a Stressed-out Dog

.

This article by Jennifer is originally published at FOMO Bones.

.

After a hard day’s work, you may sometimes look at your pooch and wish you had it as easy as they did. After all, they get three (free) square meals a day, a comfy bed, ZERO bills and plenty of belly scratches. Ahhh, that’s the life, right?

And yet our dogs can suffer severely with stress and anxiety—so much so that if left untreated, it can lead to serious behavioral issues and persistent psychological problems.

At FOMO, we’re all for happy wagging tails. So here we present the top eight signs of a dog in distress (with some pointers along the way as to what you could and should do about it.

.

1. Barely poops or, alternatively, gets all blocked op

Diarrhea and constipation can go hand-in-hand with anxiety. Like their owners, dogs have millions of receptors within their gastrointestinal tract. When a dog is stressed, these receptors react to the physiological response to fear by either speeding up or slowing down their digestive tract.

Im-paw-tant pointer: With this indicator, it’s worth understanding that diarrhea or constipation is usually more likely to be linked with illness or food intolerance—so any persistent stomach upsets should warrant an urgent trip to the vet (when we say persistent, we’re talking for more than 48 hours or so). This is especially true if you spot blood in their vomit or stools.

.

2. “Favorite dog treat? No thank you” —Your dog’s appetite dramatically decreases

This one can be a big red flag. After all, what dog would willingly turn their CBD dog treats or food down? In the most basic sense, a loss in appetite in dogs can be compared to how a human loses weight during stressful times of their life. If this has happened with your dog, think about whether there have been any new stressors recently—such as moving home, a new baby, or a change in routine. You should also think about giving your vet a call—just to ensure there’s no underlying illness that could explain their dip in appetite.

.

3. “Just leave me alone!” —Your dog isolates himself

It’s pretty natural for any dog to want to spend time alone occasionally. However, when this becomes more regular with your pup removing himself from human or canine company for hours on end, it could be an indicator that they are anxious or sick. To rule out illness, it may be worthwhile to check in with your veterinarian.

.

4. Your dog destroys… EVERYTHING

In more boisterous breeds, dogs routinely attempt to calm their nerves themselves by chowing down on furniture, shoes, toys, and even by biting or licking their own body! If you spot these signs, consider the immediate circumstances leading up to this behavior: Had they been left alone for a long time? Has an unfamiliar guest popped round?

.

5. Yawning—Yup, it’s not just a sign of tiredness

It might seem odd, but yawning can be a symptom of stress. When a dog feels anxious, their body enters flight or fight mode.

Their heart rate increases, they breathe more quickly, and their muscles tighten. To assist these processes, your pup’s body needs more oxygen, which is gained by taking deep, protracted breathes in the form of yawning.

A stressed yawn is typically observed alongside other behaviors, such as isolation and…

.

6. Pinned ears and panting

Some dogs seem to look worried—a key indicator of which can be pinned ears, where their ears pull back and sit flusher to their head. They may also pant in reaction to fear, anxiety, or stress.

A warning sign to look out for in a stressed, panting dog is when they suddenly close their mouth; this could be a signal that they’re reaching peak stress, and preparing to bite.

.

7. “Pass me the brush!” —Your pup sheds his hair

Ever noticed how much fur your dog leaves behind at the vet? You may have thought that you didn’t notice just how much they shred until you were under the bright vet lights. But actually, shedding hair is a reaction to anxiety. This can be as immediate as being in the vet’s waiting room, or it could be more gradual in response to a big life event, such as moving, adopting another pet, or a family member moving out.

.

8. Licking (and licking and licking!) their nose and lips.

Dogs are forever attempting to communicate using body language, it’s just that most humans aren’t clued up as to what action holds what meaning.

In the case of a dog who excessively licks their nose and lips, they are showing you that they’re feeling a bit uneasy.

So, those are the signs of a stressed-out pup. You could probably do with something to ease his frayed nerves. Which, luckily enough, is right about where FOMO Bones’s rather special bones step in. All-natural FOMO Bones are packed with anxiety-eradicating CBD, which eases canine anxiety and relaxes your furry friend.

.

Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

How Can CBD Help Senior Citizens?

.

This article by Madeleine Taylor was originally published on SundayScaries.

.

Cannabis-based products like medical marijuana have been getting more and more attention since Canada legalized marijuana in October 2018 year. While the healing drug from the cannabis plant is already legal in countries like Uruguay, Canada’s decision to make marijuana legal has pushed the healing capabilities of the herb into the limelight like never before.

Not a day goes by where we don’t see one of our friends share a post on social media about the therapeutic effects of CBD oil in particular, and we are often hearing of legitimate testimonials from people who have treated or helped treat their ailments and even terminal illnesses via ingesting cannabis-based products.

.

Ways CBD Can Help Senior Citizens

CBD oil has received a lot of attention this year, due to its efficacy at relieving ailments like chronic pain, arthritis, and even dementia in elderly people, and in this article we will be looking at exactly how CBD can help our loved ones during the later stages of life.

.

Combats Pain and Reduces Inflammation

As we get older, we start to notice aches and pains in our joints more frequently. And while many of us find the stiffness tolerable to a degree, when we reach a certain age, it can become debilitating and unbearable and many often turn to prescription drugs. A long time ago, CBD was found to provide long-term relief for pains that arise as a result of:

  • Arthritis
  • Neuropathy
  • Crohn‘s disease
  • Cancer
  • ALS
  • Alzheimer’s disease
  • Post-traumatic stress
  • Huntington’s disease
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Lennox-Gastaut syndrome

Many more ailments frequently cause pain in individuals of all ages, but especially the elderly. Thanks to the anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory benefits of cannabidiol oil, more doctors are prescribing nature’s powerful healing potion to senior patients as they feel it is a better alternative to dishing out traditional painkillers that can cause damage to other organs if used for too long.

With more publicity surrounding the use of CBD-based products to naturally combat the uncomfortable symptoms of aging, it quickly became the multi-purpose medicine of choice in states where it is permitted for medicinal purposes.

.

CBD Heals Your Aching Bones

When taken in the correct manner, cannabis can help damaged joints. One of the most common symptoms of aging is the reduction in bone density, which is accompanied by the tendency to be prone to Osteoporosis. This degenerative condition makes the elderly highly susceptible to fractures, especially women over the age of 50 who have been through the menopause. CBD can be used as a preventative measure and also in a curative sense when it comes to dealing with bone-related issues in seniors.

Research has revealed that CBD is capable of halting bone degeneration in its tracks and even reversing existing damage. It triggers the regeneration of healthy bone tissue, as well as growth. The result of taking regular doses of CBS is one that senior citizens very much need—increased bone density and stronger bones. It also has the added benefit of relieving pain caused by the inflammation of joints and surrounding muscles.

.

It Enhances Quality of Sleep

It comes without much surprise that many senior citizens have difficulty sleeping. They struggle to fall asleep, they can’t stay asleep for a long time, and they also usually struggle to maintain healthy sleep patterns. Not only can this lead to increased fatigue and irritability during the day, but inconsistent sleep in old age can also encourage degenerative diseases like dementia, glaucoma, and Alzheimer’s.

Fortunately, the benefits of CBD when it comes to sleep are countless. First of all, contrary to traditional prescription sleep meds, CBD enhances alertness throughout the day. However, it works much better as a sleeping aid when it is taken in the morning as opposed to right before bed. It cures insomnia by promoting lengthier, more consistent sleep patterns and also allows sufferers to overcome symptoms like anxiety, stress, and irritability that often accompany a lack of sleep. CBD is also a much safer alternative to pharmaceutical sleep aids, as there are no negative side effects associated with it whatsoever. For those of us who have elderly loved ones, this is possibly the most important advantage of the tincture.

.

What Are the Safest Ways for Senior Citizens to Take CBD?

Smoking marijuana strains rich in CBD is not recommendable for the elderly, as high quantities of THC will also be ingested. That means that grandpa will be walking around in a complete daze most of the time, possibly as high as a kite. The safest and most effective methods of experiencing all of the healing benefits that cannabis has to offer, especially among senior citizens, is to consume CBD infused edibles such as under-the-tongue tinctures, and, of course, CBD oil.

.

Final Thoughts

The benefits of choosing CBD products include no addictive properties and common withdrawal symptoms. Second, and perhaps most importantly, there are no side effects associated with CBD and a recent study revealed that in order to reach toxicity, one would have to consume over four pounds of marijuana in one day. CBD is paving the way for the world to focus on entirely natural treatments becoming commonplace in traditional medicine and with so many success stories emerging every day, the future is looking incredibly bright for cannabis-based products.

Severe Separation Anxiety in Dogs: When Is It Time to See the Vet?

.

This article by Jennifer was originally published on FOMO Bones.

.

If your dog has started acting out or is visibly stressed out when you leave him alone, then you are more than likely dealing with one of the most common issues when it comes to having a dog: separation anxiety! It is essentially defined as a problematic type of behavior that is accompanied by symptoms such as whining, pooping, excessive barking, scratching the walls and doors, chewing things up, or other destructive behavior. In more severe cases, separation anxiety could cause your dog to try and escape through the room they are in at any cost! Even crate training may not always work.

If you are among the thousands of devoted pet parents who have to deal with the negative effects of your dog’s separation anxiety, then you will be pleased to hear there are several highly effective remedies you can try at home to soothe your pup.

.

Why Do Dogs Get Separation Anxiety?

What the majority of pet owners don’t realize is that separation anxiety in dogs, especially when left for longer periods, is often encouraged by overly adoring dog owners. Because we love our four-legged friends so much, it is just too tempting not to make a huge fuss and smother them with kisses and cuddles when we get home after being at work all day. And while we think that this will give them the reassurance they need to know that we will always come back after a few hours, dogs do not have the ability to rationalize as humans do. Every time your dog experiences the anxiety of being away from you and you reward this stress with attention on returning home, you are provoking him to continue acting out. Also, dogs are pack animals and they see us as their pack leader which they want to be with 24/7, so leaving them in a crate while you go to work for short periods may have a serious effect on the pet.

The root cause of separation anxiety in dogs can’t be pinned on one general factor. Some experts indicate that a lack of exercise and overall boredom can cause our dogs to become more stressed, while many others believe that some breeds have an inherently nervous disposition compared to others. Regardless of the cause of the separation anxiety, it is something that needs to be dealt with sooner rather than later with behavior modification.

.

How to Overcome Separation Anxiety in Dogs

A change in routine including mental stimulation is thought to be one of the factors that contribute most to your pet experiencing an onset of separation anxiety. In order to start minimizing these bouts of stress, you have to establish a balanced sense of confidence, patience, and obedience in your dog. This happens by ensuring you take a consistent approach to never rewarding negative behavior. For example, if every time you leave, and you hear your dog whining and go back to comfort him, it is going to teach him that by barking and whining more, he is going to get you back quicker. Any kind of discipline and training involves patience and consistency and the same is true of helping your hound to feel better about being left home alone.

There is also a range of entirely natural and healing products you can use as tools to accompany your chosen “training” regime, such as CBD dog treats. These organic treats are infused with just the right dose of CBD oil to ease your dog’s anxiety and many dog owners who found that nothing seemed to work with regards to their dog’s separation anxiety are having excellent results. Not only will the CBD dog treats calm your dog down, but they also work to cure ailments like arthritis, epilepsy, and pain.

.

When Is It Time to See the Vet?

Separation anxiety in dogs is a common issue that almost every pet will experience to some degree, thus it is usually normal. However, there are some warning signs that indicate you might need to go and see the vet or veterinary behaviorist. These include…

.

Aggressive Behavior

If you notice that your dog is demonstrating aggressive or possessive behavior all of a sudden, then it could be he is experiencing severe separation anxiety. Many dogs try to overcome their feelings of being left alone by clinging to our sides during the time we are with them. In theory, there is nothing wrong with this, but if your dog starts guarding you and showing aggressive behavior or similar problem behaviors to others wanting to get close to you, then you need to see the vet as soon as possible in order to rule out any underlying illness. Your vet should also be able to recommend an animal behaviorist who can help you get your dog’s attitude in check.

.

Extreme Panic Attacks

Most people think that panic attacks only happen to humans who are under extreme amounts of pressure. Unfortunately, that is simply not the case, and our dogs can experience panic attacks that can cause them to act out through pooping and even eating parts of the furniture, shoes, etc. If your dog’s anxiety seems to be through the roof, then you should consult your vet about what you can do. Many vets will promote natural remedies, so be sure to ask if they think CBD treats could be a feasible option for your pup.

.

Obsessive Eating

A couple of years ago, my own dog went through such a bad case of separation anxiety he ate part of the curtain. I came home to find him choking and rushed him to the vet. Fortunately, she told me that he wasn’t choking—he was having an anxiety attack. Because dogs don’t understand what anxiety is, when they feel overcome with a negative sensation, they will often take comfort in trying to eat the proverbial lump in their throat away. Some dogs will obsessively eat shoes, cushion stuffing, and toys, while others will literally try and chew their way through doors. Aside from the cost of having to replace and repair everything, if your dog ingests plastic or wood it could cause them major stomach problems.

The above points are just a few examples of when it could be time to see a vet to get further advice on how to deal with separation anxiety in dogs. As a rule of thumb, you as a devoted dog owner will sense in your gut when something is wrong, so it’s always better to get a professional second opinion from a reputable vet to help you treat your dog’s anxiety properly.

.

Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

CBD Edible Oil: Food Infusion

.

This article by Madeleine Taylor was originally published on SundayScaries.

.

When it comes to consuming CBD, there are several different options to fit your individual needs. A few of the more popular CBD methods are vaping, smoking, and ingesting edibles. But one of the up and coming methods of consuming CBD is CBD edible oil. And with cannabis becoming legal in more and more areas, it is now easier than ever to get your hands on some.

While CBD edible oil is extremely versatile and can be used in just about anything you can think of, it is becoming increasingly popular in cooking and even making your very own edibles. Now comes the big question: Should you purchase your edibles and food pre-made, or should you buy your own CBD oil and infuse it into foods yourself? While buying foods with CBD oil already infused is much easier, it definitely isn’t nearly as fun. That’s why infusing CBD edible oil into foods yourself is the way to go.

To make sure that you are using your CBD oil safely in your cooking, here are some pointers that will help you create an amazing experience and have the absolute best results possible.

.

Always Purchase Your CBD Oil from a Reliable Source

When you are ready to go shopping for your CBD oil, the most important thing you can do is research who or where you are buying it. You always want to make sure that you are only purchasing your CBD oil from someone who is not just reliable, but also has many positive reviews and a solid reputation in the market. While you can easily do a Google search to find a seller near you, many of these sellers may not be offering a pure, high quality, tested product.

It is always best to take a few extra minutes to research several different brands and sources. You want to keep an eye out for things like:

  • Where it is originally sourced
  • What the extraction method of the oil is
  • It’s bioavailability (this is essentially the proportion that enters the body and is able to have some type of effect)
  • Any type of greenwashing tactics (this is when the seller lies to you about the benefits of the product or any environmental practices)

Once you have done your research and have found a high-quality CBD edible oil to use with your edibles and other foods, it’s time to get started. While it sounds like a great idea to jump in with both feet and start using CBD oil in everything, it’s actually not a good idea at all.

There are a couple of factors at play including the taste of your food or edibles, as well as how you react after ingesting the food or edibles. That is why it is best to follow these simple tips.

.

Get Familiar with Your Ingredients

If you want to start cooking with CBD oils, you should first understand the ingredients you plan on using and how the two may mix. A good way to start is to use recipes that use a fat or oil-based ingredient. Something like butter is a perfect way to get your feet wet when it comes to cooking with CBD oils.

It is easy to mix the two and will help you learn about infusing food with CBD oil. However, if you are cooking food without a fat or oil ingredient, this obviously won’t work. While you can infuse CBD oil with other ingredients, try to stay away from things that are water-based.

.

Always Start Off with a Test Batch

Like any new ingredient, you should always use a smaller amount of CBD oil initially. You should also only make a smaller amount of the food you are planning to make. This way you will be able to see how the infused food affects you, as well as how it tastes. Once you have found out what the effects are going to be and how the taste is altered, you can then tweak the amounts of CBD oil being used. After this, you can start making larger quantities of your food and know exactly what the end results are going to be.

.

Always Keep an Eye on the Temperature

One important step in cooking with CBD oil is the cooking temperature of your food. Now, keep in mind that CBD oil will start to evaporate at about 320 degrees. This means that cooking foods at a temperature of 400 degrees is not a good idea, as it will burn off all of the CBD oils.

So, when you are looking for a recipe to use, be sure to check the cooking temperature the food needs in order to be consumed safely. This will ensure that any CBD oils that were used will not evaporate and still be there after your food has finished cooking. As a rule of thumb, the lower the temperature you cook your food at, the greater the amount of CBD oil that will be present when it has finished.

.

Always Store Your CBD Oil Infused Food Correctly

While the more experienced will usually be more aware of how to store their CBD oil infused foods, if you are new to cooking with CBD oils you probably don’t know that it is both heat and light sensitive. This means that when it comes time to store your CBD infused foods, you should take extra precaution to make sure and avoid issues such as the taste of your food changing or the CBD evaporating or becoming less effective. The best way to avoid any of these issues is always to be sure and store your edibles in a cool, dark place.

When it comes to using CBD oils with cooking, it can be a great experience that helps to make you feel better, as well as tastes great. If you do decide to try your hand at cooking with CBD oils, be sure to always use your common sense, and it will surely be one a great experience.

Separation Anxiety Tactics for 6 Dog Breeds

.

This article by Jennifer is originally published at FOMO Bones.

.

Separation anxiety is something that every dog owner will likely have to go through at some point. And while it isn’t breed specific, there are some breeds that seem to be more prone to suffering from separation anxiety according to recent studies. Just as some breeds can be more likely to have stubborn temperaments or develop ailments like hip dysplasia, some seem to be prone to developing worse separation anxiety than others.

.

What Is Separation Anxiety?

Separation anxiety in dogs is basically an extreme version of missing you, and it is often accompanied by destructive behaviors like chewing, urinating in the house, or even escape tactics like trying to break the door down or bolting out the yard through a minuscule hole in the fence. The exact cause of separation anxiety in dogs hasn’t been pinpointed, but if your dog is among the breeds that are very people-orientated or he is a rescue pup that has been through abandonment, then it makes sense that he will be anxious when you are away from him as, ultimately, how will he know when you are coming back?

If you are considering adopting a puppy, or you have a particular breed in mind that you want to add to your family, then there are separation anxiety tactics for dogs that you need to adhere to. There are six breeds, in particular, that are prone to separation anxiety and fear, as well as stress, and require mental stimulation or it could have behavioral issues, such as destructive behavior or similar behavior modification. Failing to plan is planning to fail, so make sure that you are fully prepared to deal with separation anxiety before you bring a new pet into the family.

.

Labradors

Many dog owners all around the world hail Labradors as the best family pet. Their temperaments are usually docile and they are known for their strong familial bonds, especially with children. Due to the fact that they love nothing more than to be at their human’s side, a Labrador can often be prone to separation anxiety. They often start demonstrating signs of separation anxiety from a young age and due to their size, as they grow their behavior can become destructive when left alone.

.

Hungarian Vizsla

This stunning breed of dog was originally bred for hunting purposes and they form such a strong bond with their owners that they are known as “Velcro dogs” that are permanently glued to your side. A Vizsla is a high-energy dog, so daily exercise is an absolute must, in order to prevent continuous whining and howling and power chewing that often happens when they are left on their own.

.

Pitbull Terrier

Pitbull and Staffordshire bull terriers have unfortunately been given a very unfair reputation as highly aggressive dogs due to owner exploitation. This is simply not true, as they are naturally very loving and human orientated and they are prone to severe separation anxiety when they are forced to be apart from their owners. It is true that they are powerful dogs and can be destructive when their separation anxiety causes them to act out, which is why many owners of this breed choose to crate them when they are left alone.

.

German Shepherd

When you imagine a strong and noble German shepherd, you probably wouldn’t think that they would be prone to anxiety. In fact, they are one of the primary breeds that experiences separation anxiety due to their loyalty and pack mentality. They often see their humans as their pack leader (one of the many reasons they are frequently used as police dogs) and when they are left alone, they feel as if their whole world is falling apart.

.

Bichon Frise

These cute little lap dogs usually have big separation anxiety problems and issues with behavior as a result. The Bichon Frise was bred with the sole purpose of being a companion to its human counterpart, so while they are happy being snuggled up on their owner’s laps, panic sets in when they are left alone. Fortunately, there is only so much destruction a little dog can cause, but negative behavior associated with separation anxiety still needs to be dealt with, as they could cause themselves harm.

.

Border Collie

This herding breed is one of the most highly regarded working dogs today. They are always up for a challenge, they learn quickly and they never seem to run out of energy. Mental and physical stimulation is of prime importance when it comes to this specific breed because, should they get bored, they can become destructive and prone to separation anxiety. Border Collies see pet owners as their leaders, which is why many farmers are always seen with their loyal companion at their side and, ironically, this loyalty can also be their biggest shortcoming as they can’t cope with being left alone for extended periods of time—even short periods at first can prove to be a challenge.

.

How to Ease the Symptoms of Separation Anxiety in Your Dog

Sometimes, a dog will have a valid reason for extreme bouts of separation anxiety. Either they have been abandoned in the past, they have been separated from their mother too young, or they simply just don’t like to be on their own, and the dog’s behavior is apparent. Sometimes, however, there is no explanation for it. Whatever the cause of your pup’s anxiety, you can take certain steps to minimize their “pain” by ensuring that they are well socialized, well exercised, and distracted with treats or toys. CBD oil is an effective, natural way to minimize symptoms of anxiety in dogs and many “destructive dog” parents have had excellent results from it.

Crate training can also be a good option for larger breeds, as can doggy daycare. If you feel that your dog’s separation anxiety tactics are getting out of hand, then it is time to start exploring your options and our advice would be to start giving your pup a daily dose of high quality, organic CBD oil to calm them and get them in the right frame of mind for further training that you can undertake to prevent anxiety related issues.

.

Author bio: Jennifer is the voice behind the FOMO Bones blog. She’s pretty sure she was a Great Dane in her past life, but her team at FOMO pegs her as more of a Labrador. Regardless of her breed, she’s a dog enthusiast with 15 years’ experience training dogs and owner.

CBD Edibles vs. Vaping: The Facts You Need to Know

.

This article by Madeleine Taylor was originally published on SundayScaries.

.

Like with marijuana, if you have never used CBD before, then it’s important to understand your options for ingestion before you rush out to buy particular products. While CBD oil has proven to be incredibly effective at relieving a plethora of issues, including anxiety, stress, and insomnia, many people are also now turning to CBD edibles and vaping CBD oil. If either of these methods appeals to you, then read on to find out all of the facts you need to know before deciding whether to purchase CBD edibles or CBD vape oil. While consumption methods ultimately come down to personal preference, both vaping and eating CBD will deliver a similar level of symptom relief. You will feel uplifted, relaxed, and calm—regardless of which method you choose—each method can affect the body and mind in different ways.

.

Vaping CBD

Many people choose to purchase CBD products as a means to use cannabis for medicinal purposes. Often, they are not looking for a way to get high. Smoking cannabis is not really an option when we are focusing on the healing qualities of CBD or cannabis oil, as you will only really notice the psychotropic effects of the THC in buds. It can also be extremely harsh on your lungs, which is why consumers are now purchasing CBD-dominant vape oil. Vaping CBD is one of the quickest methods of feeling the effects of the healing herb and vaping is also permitted in the majority of public places in the United States.

.

How Do You Vape CBD?

Vape pens, or MODS as they are commonly referred to, gradually heat up the CBD infused oil to a certain temperature. When the ideal temperature is reached, you inhale the vapor into your lungs and the cannabinoids are then able to permeate through your lungs directly into your bloodstream. Vaping CBD is much kinder on the lungs than smoking is, as the device will only ever heat up enough to produce a soothing vapor. When you vape CBD oil or cannabis oil you can expect to feel the effects pretty much right away.

.

CBD Edibles

CBD infused edibles can take up to three hours to work at full capacity, but the advantage is that the effects wear off much slower than those caused by vaping CBD. If you are searching for long-lasting relief for insomnia, pain, or anxiety, then consuming a CBD infused product could be the best method for you. Additionally, if you consume an edible CBD treat, your digestive system will also benefit. CBD edibles can reduce nausea, soothe intestinal inflammation, and also provide your body with additional nutrients that it needs to function properly.

.

Why Do CBD Edibles Take Longer to Work?

As we mentioned above, your lungs provide a direct entryway into the bloodstream for CBD oil, which is why the effects of vaping are almost instantaneous. When you consume a CBD-infused edible, your liver needs to metabolize all of the contents first, which is why you usually only feel the effects a couple of hours later. That said, for many, it is worth the wait, as they prefer to enjoy longer lasting effects after consuming a singular dose per day and they also report the effects are more intense than those of CBD vape.

.

What Kind of CBD Edibles Can You Buy?

The sky is the limit when it comes to CBD edibles. You can buy cannabis-infused gummies, chocolates, juice—pretty much everything you can think of—all infused with deliciously therapeutic CBD. Most people complain about the taste of CBD oil, which is why more manufacturers are making edibles that taste just like the gummy bears you would eat as a kid! If you are a vegan, rest assured that many of the better companies also make vegan options like these!

The other amazing benefit of CBD edibles is that they are freely available online. The exact regulations on CBD oil are still unclear to a degree and they vary from state to state. With online shopping becoming an increasingly popular purchasing option for many CBD users across the country, many reputable providers will ship to different parts of the US after you buy a product online. The edibles that are sold online are derived from hemp. Technically, cannabis and hemp are the same plants, but when people refer to cannabis, they are talking about the particular types of hemp plants that produce “buds” containing THC. Hemp is grown for its strong fibers and nutritional seeds and in the US, cannabis containing less than 0.3 percent of THC is considered to be hemp. This is the reason why you can find CBD edibles online, as they are technically made from hemp.

.

Final Thoughts

Everyone who consumes CBD will have their preferred method of doing so. Learning about the different available options of consuming CBD will help you make an informed decision about the option you would like to proceed with. If you are prescribed medical cannabis, or you are simply interested in improving your overall health by using CBD, then you can try both vaping and edibles and see which method provides you with the most relief from your symptoms. Regardless of the choice you make, both options are entirely safe and you can never have too much of them. Just start slowly and play around with dosage until you find an amount that works perfectly for you.

5 Best Herbal Remedies for Anxiety

.

This article was originally published on SundayScaries.

.

It’s not uncommon for you to hear that people suffer from anxiety. In fact, there’s a good chance you know someone who suffers from it. But do you really know what it is? Anxiety is considered an uneasy feeling that is accompanied by both concern and worry, most of the time about some upcoming situation or event. Many of these instances are also filled with great uncertainty, as well.

Now, the upcoming events don’t have to be a big thing. People with anxiety can start having symptoms from a wide range of events, from studying for a test to visiting a new place. Anything can bring on anxiety if you have it.

If you have an anxiety disorder, then you know firsthand that it can persist in your everyday life. You can start feeling anxious to such an extent that it affects your relationships, overall well-being, and even your work.

Similar to most other disorders, there are several different types of anxiety, including:

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
  • Social anxiety
  • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
  • Generalized anxiety
  • Panic disorder

Each type of anxiety has its own debilitating symptoms that are slightly different from other types. Since there are so many different types of anxiety, it is a very common disorder that affects almost one-third of adults at one point or another in their life.

If you have one form or another of anxiety, there are several herbal remedies for anxiety that may help alleviate your symptoms. These herbal remedies have been studied specifically in regard to treating anxiety, so have been extensively researched. Remember to always do your own research and consult your doctor before trying any new herbal supplement or remedy.

.

1. Passion Flower

Clinical trials have shown that passion flower may be able to help with anxiety. Since passion flower is usually mixed with other herbs in most commercial products and supplements, it is difficult to distinguish the particular qualities of the herb. As long as you take it as directed, passion flower is considered to be safe; however, there have been studies founding that it can also cause dizziness, confusion, and drowsiness.

.

2. Kava

While initial studies were very promising and showed great benefits in anxiety treatment, later reports claimed that kava had the potential to cause serious damage to the liver. These reports, while they have been questioned, have caused the FDA to put out warnings about dietary supplements that contain kava. If you do decide to try kava to help with your anxiety, be sure to use caution and get your doctor involved to monitor any side effects.

.

3. Valerian

Studies have shown that Valerian users reported a lower amount of stress and anxiety than those who did not use it. Valerian is also considered to be safe if you follow the dosage guidelines. It can, however, cause some minor side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and headaches.

.

4. Lavender

You may already know that lavender is popular in aromatherapy, but it is also popular as an oral supplement. This is because lavender will help you to reduce your anxiety. While the evidence about this is somewhat limited, side effects of taking oral lavender have been known to include headaches and constipation. On top of that, it can also increase your appetite.

.

5. Marijuana

Marijuana for the treatment of anxiety is one of the most common reasons that people use it. This is because studies have shown evidence that marijuana can be extremely effective for treating anxiety disorders, no matter what the type. In fact, using cannabis to treat anxiety was first recorded in the year 1563. Garcia de Orta, a Portuguese physician, stated that it would remove all cares and worries from anxiety sufferers. He described marijuana as helping to calm and relax you, and may even put you in a hypnotic state.

If being used to treat anxiety for almost 500 years wasn’t enough, long-term users of marijuana have reported that they have noticed reduced levels of anxiety and stress and an increase in relaxation. Studies have also been done to confirm what many throughout the years have claimed. In 2014, a study from Vanderbilt University discovered that regularly smoking marijuana can potentially increase a naturally occurring chemical in the brain known as endocannabinoids, which become reduced during times of extra stress. While this is not definitively proven, researchers have a theory that this reduction in endocannabinoids is one of the major causes of anxiety.

Finally, marijuana is not only safer and more effective in treating anxiety than traditional anxiety medicines, but it can also help you get off any prescribed anxiety medicines, most of which normally have some extreme side effects like dizziness, internal bleeding, and even rectal bleeding. When you are looking for the best herbal remedies for anxiety, remember that herbal supplements are not regulated or monitored by the FDA. This means that some company’s quality may be a little lower than what is led to believe.

If you are thinking about using an herbal remedy to help treat your anxiety, be sure to speak with your doctor prior to starting. While there are many different herbal remedies available to help you treat anxiety, you should always be sure to do your research on them before testing them out. This way you’ll be safe and will limit any potentially hazardous side effects that may be caused by your new herbal remedies for anxiety.