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Is President Biden the ‘Faux Pro-Cannabis Reformer’?

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Joe Biden on cannabis reform

https://mjbizdaily.com/critics-question-value-of-bidens-marijuana-research-law/

 

The phrase “bread and circus” originates from ancient Rome, referring to a political strategy of providing superficial distractions and entertainment to the masses, while neglecting substantial issues and failing to deliver on promises. Unfortunately, this concept of empty spectacle seems all too familiar in today’s political landscape. President Joe Biden, who campaigned on promises of significant cannabis reform, has come under scrutiny for his administration’s lackluster approach to the issue.

 

Throughout history, politicians have mastered the art of making grand promises only to fall short in delivering substantial change. Biden’s pro-cannabis rhetoric during his campaign created a sense of hope among advocates and supporters of legalization. However, as time has passed, it has become apparent that the Biden administration’s actions are more about showmanship than meaningful progress.

 

 

In the realm of politics, promises often come with an expiration date, leaving voters disillusioned by the lack of follow-through.

 

President Joe Biden, who touted significant cannabis reform during his campaign, has faced criticism for his administration’s failure to deliver on those promises. Despite the enactment of the Medical Marijuana and Cannabidiol Research Expansion Act in December, which was received with hope and enthusiasm by the cannabis industry, little progress has been made in advancing federal cannabis research and reform.

 

As highlighted in an article by Chris Roberts on MJBizDaily, the Biden administration’s approach to cannabis reform has been lackluster at best. The federal government’s failure to initiate new cannabis research projects or approve applications for research-grade cannabis production under the new law has drawn the ire of critics.

 

Even Attorney General Merrick Garland has yet to place the necessary notice to consider research applications, leaving aspiring researchers stranded.

 

The responsibility for overseeing research on cannabis, a Schedule I controlled substance, remains with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) rather than health or science officials. This has raised concerns about the potential roadblocks faced by researchers due to the DEA’s historical stance on marijuana. Sue Sisley, a licensed researcher, expressed disappointment in the lack of progress, stating that the new research bill has not facilitated any advancements in marijuana research.

 

Furthermore, the involvement of organizations such as Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM) in drafting the research bill has cast doubt on its true intentions. SAM, known for its anti-legalization stance, claimed credit for its role in shaping the legislation. 

 

I frequently discredit the work of their founder who goes on prohibitionist tours all over the world, spouting his anti-cannabis rhetoric.

 

Critics argue that this raises questions about the bill’s efficacy and whether it was designed to impede research progress rather than foster it. This is something we’ve seen with the Biden Admin – their long standing allegiance to the pharmaceutical industry, of which SAM is certainly an offset from. SAM makes most of its money from its rehabilitation clinics, which is why when people aren’t forced by courts to do “mandatory rehab”, they would stand to lose revenue.

 

The shortcomings of the research reform bill, as highlighted by cannabis policy attorney Shane Pennington, further diminish its impact.

 

Pennington points out that the bill grants the DEA significant authority over cannabis research, undermining the prospects of genuine scientific advancement. Additionally, the bill fails to address research on commercially sold marijuana, which has higher THC levels than federally approved research cannabis. This limitation raises concerns about the validity and applicability of research findings to real-world scenarios involving cannabis use.

 

In light of these criticisms, it becomes clear that the Biden administration’s pro-cannabis rhetoric may be nothing more than a façade. Something I have argued since day one of his administration. In fact, while Democrats like Tommy Chong was touting the victory over “The Evil Orange one”, they were in fact signing a contract with another devil.

 

You just have to go down a clip parade of Biden’s “tough on drugs” path to political power and his completely racist past to know where his allegiances lie.

 

The lack of progress in federal cannabis research and the involvement of organizations with opposing views have fueled skepticism about the administration’s commitment to meaningful reform. As the industry and advocates continue to call for genuine progress, it is crucial to examine whether the administration’s promises will materialize or if they are merely another instance of political bread and circus – offering empty gestures while substantive change remains elusive.

 

You know where I stand on this issue – Mr. Pharma – who can barely string a coherent sentence – will not be opening the gates of cannabis legalization during his presidency.

 

Research will be placed in the hands of the DEA who has the current definition of cannabis as “Highly addictive and no medical value” which is scientifically incorrect.

 

That’s like if NASA believed in a flat earth “officially”.

 

But here’s the thing most people don’t get yet – the government has been playing this game for decades and only those who have carefully studied the drug war and their policies understand that Biden basically punked all “blue voting” cannabis smokers.

 

He played you for a fool, and unfortunately – Tommy Chong, Steven King, and all the people who pushed the “There’s only Biden” strategy in the previous elections placed a career prohibitionist at the help of legalizing cannabis.

 

Let me explain the DEA-FDA Catch-22!

 

 

If you analyze the historic actions in relation to cannabis research and regulation, you’ll notice a complex web of bureaucracy that has hindered progress and left cannabis activists frustrated.

 

This perpetual cycle, often referred to as the DEA/FDA Catch-22, is a mechanism that perpetuates bureaucratic hurdles, making it difficult for meaningful change to occur. By intertwining the actions of different agencies and subjecting them to the approval of one another, progress becomes stymied, and the status quo remains intact.

 

Cannabis activists have long requested a scientific review of cannabis, urging the government to reassess its classification and explore its potential medical benefits. However, these requests have often been met with bureaucratic obstacles, with paperwork being shuffled between offices, resulting in a cycle of apparent busyness without any substantial progress.

 

This tactic, reminiscent of the frustrating experiences one encounters when trying to reach customer service at large corporations like Amazon or banks, is designed to discourage and exhaust activists.

 

The underlying motive behind this bureaucratic maze can be traced back to the Controlled Substances Act of 1971.

 

Critics argue that the Act, with its strict classification of drugs, was designed to keep drugs, including cannabis, under the control of pharmaceutical interests. This intentional obstructionism serves to maintain the existing power structures and prevent the emergence of alternative approaches to drug policy.

 

The DEA/FDA Catch-22 manifests as a reciprocal dependency between agencies. The FDA claims that they need permission from the DEA to study cannabis, while the DEA claims it needs the FDA to do the assessments in order to essentially “grant the permissions”. Sure, this is very basic and not entirely outlining the whole processs – but it falls within these lines. This circular dependency perpetuates a bureaucratic stalemate, leaving both agencies seemingly unable to move forward without the other’s permission.

 

As a result, cannabis activists and researchers are caught in a frustrating cycle of waiting, hoping for progress while being met with bureaucratic barriers. This Catch-22 mechanism effectively pacifies and frustrates those seeking change, making it difficult to challenge the existing power dynamics and push for meaningful reform.

 

The way I see it you have a few options from this point on.

 

  • You realize that the whole political arena is nothing more than “Bread and Circus” and that we’re living more closely to serfdom than we are full democracy. All you have to do to see this is to realize that “YOU” are the product (consumers) and that our modern royalty call themselves “Corporations”.

 

It’s these corporations that sponsor bills and change laws and pay hefty sums of money to news outlets and politicians to keep the people at bay.

This means that any participation within the system is pointless because at the end of the day, you’re not the one influencing the laws or policies in the country. They are done with the direction of these corporations.

 

As a result, you can simply declare yourself an Anarchist – never vote again, figure out ways to pay less and less taxes, move to the country and simply say, “Fuck it!”

 

You don’t even need to move anywhere, you could technically stay right where you are, and even pay taxes – understanding that if you don’t an entity with guns will force you or take away your liberty – but, hold the philosophy at heart that you don’t support “their system”.

 

Rather, you’re actively beginning to create a new system, one that is open-source and allows people to be themselves without being directed by consumerist policies.

 

  • You get angry! You switch sides and go to the Reds! Except, they too are bought by the same corporate elite and serve their masters. Different corporate masters, but masters nonetheless.

 

Going this route ensures nothing. You’re basically still playing the game designed to keep you in a cage. Trump sold vaccines for Pfizer, placed pharma execs at the helm of the pandemic – he is no savior.

 

For those who is drinking the Orange Kool-Aid, you’re just the same as your democrat “rivals”. You’re simply the opposite side of the coin, but are fundamentally the same thing.

 

This is because you subscribe to party over reason and curiosity. You subscribe to dogma over rational thinking. You are simply myopically focused on one outcome, “your tribe winning”.

 

And your tribe was infected decades ago, and you’re still pandering to their games – giving them your loyalty when all they do is systematically fuck you as much as they can.

 

Sure, there might be some people that seems like they are legit – but the whole system has been coopted and if you don’t see that, you’re simply a perpetuator of a cancerous system.

 

If you’re reading these words, maybe it’s time to wake the fuck up!

 

 

I’m an anarchist, but I’m also a foreign-national. This means that I don’t live in the country I was born in. This means that for my whole life, I never really participated in any election process. I have never voted and I probably never will.

 

However, even for an Anarchist like me, there is something that can be said of “local politics”. This is the real battle ground for change and if stoners and non-stoners alike could realize this, they could break the system in a matter of 10-years or less.

 

Here’s the thing. The current system is a nodal system of hierarchy.

 

Everything is divided into “power zoners”. You’ve got the “BIG ONE” which everyone sees. This is the Bidens and Trumps, the major elections. These are all meaningless mainly because that system is rigged.

 

It doesn’t matter who you vote for – “The SYSTEM” is  okay with either candidate winning. It’s gone through the selection process, the donors have all agreed – whoever wins is good for business.

 

Then we move down to “major leagues” which would be State authority. Over here, you can actually have some power, but, just like “THE BIG ONE” there are power mafias gatekeeping the positions. This is because on a State level, you could technically enact new laws that are illegal on a federal level.

 

To get to this level – you have to bend over and spread cheeks for your corporate overlords, because they are involved in this scene too.

 

When we go down to counties and municipalities – the little leagues – this is where things get interesting. Granted, you might not have crazy power at this level, but – there are minor laws and policies that can get enacted and when people see the benefit of this – the concepts spread like wildfires.

 

This is because, within local communities – people are connected. You know the people in your neighborhoods, your local store owners, etc.

 

On this level, you can start creating local “decriminalization efforts”, you can divert funds to help with the problems of your community.

 

If I were to spend any energy attempting at fixing the system – this is where I’d start.

 

Maybe you won’t make a major change – but you’ll be a part of it, and that counts!

 

 

 

At the end of the day, you have to decide your level of involvement in the charade. It has become painfully obvious that our so called leaders have been infiltrated and financially “acquired” by our corporate masters – and that as long as we continue to pretend that it isn’t like this…the longer it will go on.

 

In the meanwhile, either unplug or get active, but for the love of Ganj – stop blindly participating in the lies.

 

BIDEN THROWS THE MARIJUANA INDUSTRY A BONE, READ ON…

BIDEN TROJAN HORSE TO THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY

BIDEN’S TROJAN HORSE FOR THE CANNABIS INDUSTRY?



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Is Kratom Addictive? Understanding Dependence, Risks, and Safe Usage

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is kratom addictive

Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.

From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.

However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.

Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.

Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence

Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.

The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.

  • From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.

  • Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.

  • As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.

The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.

Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature

The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.

How Kratom Works in the Brain

Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.

Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use

  • Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.

  • Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.

  • Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.

Assessment of Addiction Risks

Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.

Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body

There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.

  • Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.

  • Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.

  • FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.

  • Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.

  • Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.

Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.

Conclusion

Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.

Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.

When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.

The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.

 

WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…

WHAT IS KRATOM

WHAT IS KRATOM AND WHY ARE YOU HEARING ABOUT IT NOW?



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New Rule, December 5: Oregon Cannabis Retailers, Processors and Labor Peace Agreements

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Oregon’s Measure 119 passed last week, as expected. This means that as of December 5th, every OLCC licensed retailer, processor, researcher and testing lab must secure a labor peace agreement before OLCC will approve a new or renewal license application. The labor peace agreement must be with a “bona fide labor organization.”

I previewed M119 back in September, explaining:

Compulsory peace agreements aren’t anything new in cannabis, although it would be something different here in Oregon. California, for example, requires labor peace agreements for many of its cannabis licensees, and has for many years. We had clients struggle with the concept initially, and we saw some fumbled rollouts, but people eventually adjusted.

Measure 119 further provides that retailers and processors would be required to remain neutral, under the peace agreements, when labor organizations communicate with employees about collective bargaining rights “with any licensure or renewal application.”

M119 may be legally problematic

I’m not a First Amendment lawyer, but it’s not clear to me that an Oregon business can be constrained from speaking with employees– regardless of what M119 provides. Oregon’s speech protections are extremely broad, which is why we have a naked bike ride, tons of strip clubs and no campaign finance restrictions.

I’m also not a labor lawyer, but I’m told M119 could hit a snag on the National Labor Relations Act.

I’ve run these concepts by an Oregon First Amendment lawyer and a couple of labor lawyers, and all confirmed to me that M119 has real exposure. I found that feedback interesting, because M119 sponsors would have understood this when they set out signature gathering. Back in September, I wrote:

The United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555 spent a good deal of money to get Measure 119 on the ballot, rounding up some 163,000 signatures when only 117,173 were required. This follows on a stymied effort to get House Bill 3183 passed last year, which would have accomplished the same thing legislatively.

HB 3183 failed after a couple of advisory letters from the State of Oregon, Legislative Counsel Committee (see here and here). Those letters discussed preemption exposure for what is now M119 under the National Labor Relations Act, The Taft Hartley Act, and other federal laws. Oregon Business and Industry, the largest business group in the state, also submitted opposing testimony, highlighting legal exposure.

As to the First Amendment issues, anyone watching this is advised to follow litigation recently brought by Ctrl Alt Destroy, Inc., on a similar requirement in California.

So let’s see how that goes, and let’s see if anyone in the Oregon cannabis space wants to make a run at litigating M119. For now, credit to UFCW Local 555, I guess, for not giving up and for getting this thing on the ballot. And for having some fun by slipping a Rickroll into the voter pamphlet. I’m sure that won a few people over.

The OLCC process

I don’t have any information yet on what OLCC is going to do ahead of the December 5th deadline. It’s worth noting that, in addition to California, other recreational cannabis states including New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Connecticut and Delaware all have similar requirements. Most likely, OLCC will put out an FAQ page very soon that looks something like this and licensees will need to upload something or other to CAMP with respect to any post-December 5th application or renewal.

As far as OLCC licensees negotiating these agreements, the best approach would be to speak with experienced labor counsel. Labor law is highly specialized, and negotiating a labor peace agreement with any outfit claiming to be a “bona fide labor organization” is not a typical exercise.

For now, this is just one more thing for licensed cannabis businesses to comply with. Please reach out to us if you have any questions or need a referral.



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The CBD Dog Treat Guide

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CBD dog treats good or bad

As the popularity of CBD (cannabidiol) continues to rise, many pet owners are exploring its potential benefits for their furry companions. CBD is derived from the hemp plant and is known for its therapeutic properties, which may help alleviate anxiety, pain, inflammation, and other health issues in dogs. However, when considering CBD treats for your dog, it’s crucial to understand the ingredients that go into these products. This article will delve into the essential ingredients to look for in CBD treats, their benefits, potential risks, and how to choose the right product for your canine friend.

 

Understanding CBD and Its Benefits for Dogs

 

Before we dive into the ingredients, it’s important to understand what CBD is and how it can benefit dogs. CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which can produce a “high,” CBD does not have intoxicating effects. Instead, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in both humans and animals, which plays a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes.

 

Potential Benefits of CBD for Dogs

 

  • Anxiety Relief: Many dogs experience anxiety due to various factors such as loud noises, separation from their owners, or changes in their environment. CBD may help reduce anxiety levels by promoting a sense of calm.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Choosing the Right CBD Treats

 

When selecting CBD treats for your dog, it’s essential to look beyond just the CBD content. The overall quality of the treat is equally important. Here are some key ingredients you should be aware of:

 

1. High-Quality CBD Oil

 

The foundation of any good CBD treat is the quality of the CBD oil used. Look for treats that contain:

 

  • Full-Spectrum or Broad-Spectrum CBD: Full-spectrum products contain all cannabinoids found in the hemp plant, including trace amounts of THC (below 0.3% as per legal standards). Broad-spectrum products contain multiple cannabinoids but no THC. Both types can provide an “entourage effect,” enhancing the therapeutic benefits.

 

 

 

2. Natural Ingredients

 

Just like human food, the ingredients in your dog’s treats matter significantly. Look for treats made with natural ingredients rather than artificial additives or preservatives. Here are some beneficial components:

 

Whole grains like oat flour or brown rice flour provide essential nutrients and fiber that support digestive health. They are also a good source of energy for active dogs.

 

Healthy fats are vital for maintaining your dog’s coat and skin health. Ingredients like coconut oil or peanut butter not only enhance flavor but also provide beneficial fatty acids that support overall well-being.

 

Incorporating fruits and vegetables into your dog’s treats can boost their nutritional value:

 

 

 

 

 

To make treats more appealing without resorting to artificial flavors, look for natural flavorings like chicken broth or carob (a chocolate substitute safe for dogs). These ingredients can enhance taste while keeping the treat healthy.

 

3. Functional Ingredients

 

Some treats may include additional functional ingredients designed to address specific health concerns:

 

 

These compounds are often included in joint support treats to help maintain joint health and mobility, especially in older dogs or those with arthritis.

 

 

Probiotics can promote gut health by supporting a healthy balance of bacteria in your dog’s digestive system.

 

 

Certain herbs like chamomile or ginger may offer calming effects or aid digestion. Always ensure these herbs are safe for canine consumption before choosing treats containing them.

 

Ingredients to Avoid

 

While there are many beneficial ingredients to seek out, it’s equally important to know which ones to avoid:

 

1. Artificial Additives

 

Many commercial pet treats contain artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives that can be harmful to your dog’s health. These additives may lead to allergic reactions or other health issues over time.

 

2. High Sugar Content

 

Just like humans, dogs do not need excessive sugar in their diets. Treats high in sugar can lead to obesity and dental problems.

 

3. Low-Quality Fillers

 

Avoid treats with low-quality fillers such as corn syrup or by-products that do not provide any nutritional value.

 

4. THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol)

Always ensure that any CBD product you choose contains less than 0.3% THC to avoid any psychoactive effects on your dog.

 

How to Introduce CBD Treats Safely

 

When introducing any new treat into your dog’s diet—especially one containing CBD—it’s essential to do so gradually:

 

  • Start Small: Begin with a small amount of the treat to see how your dog reacts.

  • Monitor Your Dog: Observe your dog for any adverse reactions such as changes in behavior or gastrointestinal upset.

  • Adjust Dosage as Needed: Depending on your dog’s size and needs, you may need to adjust the dosage over time.

  • Consult Your Veterinarian: Before starting any new supplement regimen, including CBD treats, consult with your veterinarian—especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is taking other medications.

 

Conclusion

 

CBD treats can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet when chosen carefully with attention to ingredient quality and safety. By understanding what goes into these treats—such as high-quality CBD oil, natural ingredients, functional additives—and knowing what to avoid, you can make informed decisions that support your dog’s health and well-being.

Always prioritize transparency from manufacturers regarding ingredient sourcing and product testing; this will ensure you’re providing your furry friend with safe and effective options tailored to their needs. With proper research and guidance from a veterinarian, you can confidently explore the potential benefits of CBD treats for your beloved pet while ensuring they enjoy a tasty snack that’s good for them too!

 

CBD OIL FOR DOGS, READ ON…

CAN CBD OIL HELP DOGS

WHAT CONDITIONS CAN CBD HELP TREAT IT DOGS?



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