Facts, fear, sales, CBD & COVID-19

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News Flash: The study in question is NOT peer-reviewed. It’s also strictly theoretical, meaning it may (likely) not work, or even be dangerous.

I could probably go on forever questioning why the media (and even some “reputable” associations) continue to share non-peer reviewed, non-verified information, but I won’t. We know a great headline catches clicks and shares. And before you go on and say this has absolutely nothing to do with pets, or pet food – it does! This is just parallel example about how bad science is used to propagate either a false sense of security, fear – and sell a product. I’m also not “anti” CBD, but that isn’t the point. There are several applications where it is useful for pets and people, but in this instance there simply an overabundance of bad information swirling around CBD preventing and/or treating COVID-19 that makes for a great example for my point: why it is so important to dive deeper into everything.

I hope that those who read this see it as an opportunity to learn how to challenge information and data. So often we look for someone to just give us “the answer” and it is just not that simple. Determining what is right for you and your pet in your unique situation will take some work. Take this article as an example of how to learn about how to do that work, vet your sources and arrive at an educated conclusion.

FDA Oversight & COVID-19

As a background to the entire discussion it is important to realize that an “era of speed to market” is upon us. The FDA has allowed some alternative testing methods while also accelerating the process for drug and vaccine development. While the FDA is still overseeing these processes, they are reviewing studies and data more efficiently given the current pandemic. Having said that, the FDA has also acknowledged that many companies are trying to take advantage of people’s fears by offering up solutions like X, Y and Z – and if you see CBD companies using this “study” to gain attention it is proof of just that. In fact, the FDA has been aggressively sending warning and cease/desist letters to companies making these claims because they are in clear violation of the Food Drug & Cosmetic Act.  You can see a lot of those warning letters for CBD companies here: FDA Issues CBD Warning Letters.

This isn’t the first time companies have taken advantage of a crisis, or preyed upon people’s fears and vulnerabilities. Manufacturers of colloidal silver products have also recently received warning letters for claims that it prevents and/or treats COVID-19. We can only wait for irresponsible CBD companies to make unsubstantiated claims coming off the heels of this “study”. One would hope that this prompts CBD manufacturers and marketing agencies to be responsible and transparent with their products.

Understanding Peer-Review vs. Non-Peer-Reviewed

The public largely doesn’t realize that research journals, some great and some not so great, are pre-publishing papers without peer-review. This is simply to share current research and information freely with other researchers for the sake of collaboration. Typically, a lot of this information is not as easily accessible to the public because many of these papers are somewhat gated through journal memberships, and/or with a pay-per-article download/view. Research manuscripts go through vetting processes which doesn’t eliminate, but at least filters out a lot of “bad science” before it makes its way out to the public and media outlets. This current “open access” of information is a great thing for the scientific community – however it is NOT a great thing to be circulating potentially harmful and incomplete information to the general public who generally does not understand if this information is verified, factual or theoretical – they simply  see “study” and think, it MUST be true because it’s “science”. Unfortunately humans make mistakes, manipulate data and come to flawed conclusions – either by error, omission and/or on purpose. Hence the need for peer-review.

Not Applicable to “The Real World”

The reality is that much of the information out there regarding Covid-19 prevention and treatment is inapplicable to the real world as they are preliminary experiments that were conducted in a controlled environment, on small scales and with measured variables – and many have not had peer-review. This will obviously change over time, but this is the current reality and the reason why so many people are working on this all over the world at warp speed. Am I Covid-19 or infectious disease expert? No. But I do know how research works and what the value of scaling research, test-retest repeatability and of course the value in peer-review and critical analysis– and much of the information out there has little to none of it.

The CBD/COVID-19 Study:

So, to finally summarize this COVID-19/CBD “study”; researchers acknowledge that SARS-CoV2 is transmitted through respiratory droplets, with potential for aerosol and contact spread. The virus uses receptor-mediated entry into the human host via angiotensin-converting enzyme II (ACE2) that is expressed in lung tissue, as well as oral and nasal mucosa, kidney, testes, and the gastrointestinal tract.

Having said that, the researchers hypothesize (educated guess) that a theoretical path for combating, or decreasing susceptibility, of this virus could be modulation of ACE2 levels in these gateway tissues. The researchers have potentially identified 13 high CBD-C containing C. sativa varieties of the hemp plant that have the potential to modulate ACE2 gene expression and ACE2 protein levels. Further, their initial data suggest that some C. sativa extract down-regulate serine protease TMPRSS2, another critical protein required for SARS-CoV2 entry into host cells. They theorize that these substances could be used as an active ingredient in a mouthwash-type product to reduce the incidence of viral entry via the oral mucosa.

It’s also important to note that all of the authors are employed by one or more start-up companies engaged in medical cannabis and disease research. While not always the case, this could lead to bias in the results. Again, this further highlighting the need for peer-review.

STUDY CONCLUSION: The authors recognize that their hypothesis needs further large-scale validation as a potential AJUNCT therapy (not mainline treatment) for COVID-19.

The Study in Context and the Media:

Unfortunately, we didn’t see the media articles explain the mouthwash as an adjunct treatment. Leaving the general public, the potential to assume that smoking or using other various marijuana and/or hemp products could help prevent and/or treat COVID-19. The sad thing is that people will read headlines at face value and think that smoking a sativa strain of the hemp plant may provide some protection or therapy against COVID-19. Worse, it may influence some to try using this for their pets. Regardless, we know that smoking is actually increases risk-factors for COVID-19 complications and other respiratory diseases. This just highlights the medias frenzy to distribute click-worthy information, without verification and obviously without regard for human (or animal) health or safety. If only the media visited preprints.org they would have found a highlight at the top that says “This version is not peer-reviewed” which is an indicator that it should not have been widely distributed.

In conclusion, it’s important to always vet the source of any information relating to health and nutrition. Find the original source of the information, in this case it happened to be a non-peer-reviewed theoretical paper which needs validation of said theory. While it may provide hope as an adjunct therapy for some, only a series of carefully designed scientific experiments, trials and validation methods will tell. Take that for what it is worth.

 

Nicole Cammack

 

Nicci is the owner of award-winning NorthPoint Pets & Company, in Connecticut. She is also the Founder & CEO of Undogmatic Inc. Her undergraduate and graduate education includes biology, chemistry, business, and nutrition. She has worked in the pharmaceutical industry on multiple R&D projects and has had the privilege to learn from leading international figures in the human and pet health industry. She regularly lectures at national conferences, including federal, state, and municipal K9 events. Her current research involves identifying pathogenic risk factors and transmission among raw fed pets through a comprehensive worldwide survey.

 

www.northpointpets.com
www.undogmaticinc.com

Why Your Pet’s Skin Issues Aren’t Always at the Surface?

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Grooming is an essential part of owning a pet. But have you ever asked yourself why? 

Regular brushing, bathing and nail trimming can assist with not only the overall appearance of your pet but also have some physiological benefits. Brushing your dog’s coat regularly removes the dead hair, prevents mats, and even allows their coat to breathe and grow new hair. Brushing your pet is also essentially a massage—and who doesn’t enjoy a massage? It provides great bonding time between you both.

One of the more common issues that bring dog owners to NorthPoint Pets is a dog’s skin. Allergies, itchy skin, flaky skin, hot spots and more—are all common complaints from pet owners. But rather than looking at the obvious symptom—the pet’s itchy skin—we want to figure out WHY your pet is itchy and that starts in the gut. 

Our pets have good (and sometimes bad) bacteria in their gut. This colony is called their microbiome which is in their intestines and gut. The microbiome is essential for immune health, which includes our pet’s skin and coat. When the microbiome is compromised, their skin is also compromised. This results in a dull coat, a stinky dog, and more. 

The best thing you can do for your pet is to feed a good diet with an addition of fresh foods. We can also recommend supplements to help your dog look and feel their best!

 

What’s the Best Way to Keep My Pet’s Coat Healthy?

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What’s the best way to maintain your pet’s coat? While grooming needs will vary from pet to pet, here are a few basics to consider. 

First, it’s important to note that your grooming regimen should be customized for your pet. Some pets simply require weekly brushing, while others may need daily brushing with the help of topical treatments to prevent knots and matting. The term “grooming” refers simply to topical maintenance of the coat and not necessarily a visit to the groomer. 

Routine grooming is essential to maintaining your pet’s healthy coat. A regular routine has plenty of benefits not only for your pet but also for you:

  • Helps keep coat fresh and clean
  • Reduces friction between hair follicles
  • Helps ventilate pores to reduce levels of oil buildup
  • Prevents knots and mats from forming
  • Familiarizes yourself with your pet’s body to determine any abnormalities
  • Builds a bond between you and your pet
  • Stimulates your pet’s brain from the interaction
  • Helps regulate body temperature with a well-brushed coat
  • Help find ectoparasites (fleas, ticks, etc.)

Knowing when to and how to properly brush your pet will help enhance these benefits. The frequency of brushing will depend on multiple factors, including your pet’s breed. Normally, we recommend short-haired pets to be brushed once weekly, and pets with longer-haired coats should be brushed roughly 3 to 4 times weekly. Long-haired coats need more maintenance as they are more prone to creating mats and/or knots if unkempt. 

Two products that may assist with your weekly routine are detangling sprays or grooming wipes. Detangling sprays are great because they leave your pet smelling wonderful and help reduce friction between the hair follicles, therefore causing less damage to the coat when brushing. Grooming wipes come in handy to spot clean dirty areas, wipe paws and faces, or just freshen up between baths. Grooming wipes are also excellent for pet owners who have allergies to things like pollen or weeds because you can wipe your pet down when they come in from outside to reduce allergens being carried in on their fur. 

Without Proper Grooming

When your pet’s coat isn’t groomed frequently enough, it can cause the buildup of dead hair and skin cells that will ultimately lead to painful mats. These problems can lead to mild or moderate itchiness, sores, or even severe wounds. They can even cut off blood circulation in severe cases. 

Coat Health through Diet and Supplements

If you notice itchy skin, dry patches, sores, hotspots, redness, or swelling on the skin, you may need to consider making changes to your pet’s diet regimen. Several factors come into play here because the food your pet consumes directly impacts the health of their gut microbiome, which reflects the skin and coat health. 

For example, cereal and starchy foods can often lead to inflammation which can cause itchiness. Sensitivities to other ingredients should be discussed to determine if a food change and/or elimination may be helpful. 

Another factor in maintaining coat health is omega 3’s. Omega 3’s are essential fatty acids that have great benefits for the skin and coat. Dogs and cats cannot produce their own, so supplementation through diet is key. Omega 3’s contain EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) which are essential for anti-inflammatory purposes, growth development, heart function, brain function, and vision. 

Despite how crucial omega 3’s are, they are not required in commercial pet food. Therefore, it is recommended to still supplement your pet’s food with omega 3 capsules or liquid (we recommend Nordic Naturals). Visit us in-store to discuss appropriate dosing for your pet. 

References:

Solomon, Dr. Donna. “Fish Oil for Dogs and Cats: Six Benefits.” Animal Medical Center of Chicago, 15 Aug. 2018, https://www.animalmedicalcenterofchicago.com/fish-oil-for-dogs-and-cats-six-benefits/. 

Easter, Fanna. “Are Dog Wipes Worth It?” Dog Training Nation, 17 Jan. 2017, https://www.dogtrainingnation.com/equipment/are-dog-wipes-worth-it/. 

“A Wonder-Fur World: Why Pets Need Regular Grooming.” Ethos Veterinary Health, 29 Oct. 2021, https://www.ethosvet.com/blog-post/a-wonder-fur-world-why-pets-need-regular-grooming/#:~:text=Dogs%20can%20get%20greasy%20hair,irritation%20and%20other%20skin%20problems. 

Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “The Benefits of Brushing Your Furry Friend.” Ontario SPCA and Humane Society, 6 Jan. 2022, https://ontariospca.ca/blog/the-benefits-of-brushing-your-furry-friend/. 

Craig JM. Atopic dermatitis and the intestinal microbiota in humans and dogs. 

Veterinary Medicine and Science, (2016), 2, pp. 95-105 John Wiley & Sons Ltd, accessed August 26, 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5645856/pdf/VMS3-2-095.pdf

 

Redefining Transparency: a dirty word

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Transparency rarely exists in the pet industry. Despite what marketing tells us. So how do we fix it?

There are a lot of products and companies that make health claims and clean sourcing that aim to provide a certain level of comfort to the consumer. However, most companies are not willing or able to prove it. Simple email requests for documentation of processes and testing from me, as a retailer, often go unanswered. The lack of response is sometimes from companies most pet owners know and trust. Believe it or not, some of these companies would surprise even the savviest pet owner.

So how did we get here?

There’s a widespread lack of data across food, supplement, and treat categories. For example, a lack of data exists to substantiate claims such as ancient grains prevent the risk of DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy or heart disease). Or that adding taurine to a product makes it heart-healthy. What about high-protein pet foods? There’s no benchmark to define what that means – or that it’s beneficial. Why? Because nobody has held these companies accountable for their claims. They’ve never needed to provide data to support these claims because nobody has ever really asked. One can make the argument that the lack of data from manufacturers opened the doors up for bad science behind the grain-free and heart disease debate to flourish. Simply, bad science won because there was inadequate data to support the effectiveness of grain-free food to provide adequate nutrition. Manufacturers were and still are silent because they are unable to stand behind their products and support the retailers who sell their products. Harsh, but true.

These are just some recent examples. Many products within the industry, including ones perceived as natural and high quality, lack actual measurable transparency and quality control. This means that their benefits, or claim of benefit, could easily be overshadowed by poor sourcing, toxins, and/or formulation.

What is measurable transparency?

For supplements, few companies do inbound testing on their raw ingredients or at least make those results public. Such testing would verify that the ingredient is what it says it is. It should also screen for toxic contaminants and ensure each ingredient has verification of origin and quality supply chain. In today’s pandemic economy, a company should be able to claim AND certify ingredients within their supplements or products that are not sourced from China. That final product should also have an analysis that confirms the targeted levels of active ingredients and reconfirms the lack of toxins.

When it comes to toxic screening, CBD is of particular concern, because it can be a highly toxic plant. This is because hemp performs a process called phytoremediation. Meaning that it absorbs heavy metals and many of the agricultural chemicals in the soil such as pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. Inbound raw ingredients should always be tested for these toxins – in addition to the final product. CBD and other supplement companies should openly provide this information – however the majority can’t because they do not conduct these tests.

For treats – the same applies. Do the inbound raw ingredients have quality control measures that allow the company to be fully transparent? Will that company shares those reports? These same transparency concerns also apply to pet food. We also see a general lack of transparency and accountability leaving both manufacturers and retailers open for potential problems. Establishing accountability simply starts with both pet owners and retailers asking these questions and demanding improvement. Change won’t happen overnight, but improvement has to start somewhere.

How do we redefine transparency?

It’s clear how transparency across nearly all pet categories is lacking. Transparency has become a feel-good word for those who don’t know any better. However, for those that do, it’s become a cringe-worthy tagline that is an Achilles heel.

The reality is that asking these questions and holding companies accountable is a path that most are hesitant to venture down. However, gone are the days of blind trust in manufacturers. Blind trust has cost the health and lives of many pets too many times to count. The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting a different result. As pet owners and advocates, we need to start asking the tough questions to demand accountability for the betterment of the industry, and most importantly our pets.

Asking the tough questions:

The following is a general, but not complete, list of questions to ask for food, supplement, and treat manufacturers. Keep in mind that most companies will be unable to provide all the answers and that the goal is to encourage actual, rather than perceived, transparency. It will take time, but change will require asking these questions and ultimately basing buying and retail stocking decisions on the availability and willingness to provide satisfactory answers.

  • Do you have verification of your supply chain and the origin of your ingredients?
  • Do any of your raw materials come from China?
  • Do you conduct inbound testing for active ingredients, pathogens and toxins for your raw materials?
  • Do you conduct a 3rd party analysis of the active ingredients/nutrients contained within the final product?
  • Do you conduct digestibility tests on all your final products? Just select formulas? Or none at all? Are those reports public?
  • What is the digestibility of your final product?
  • Do you conduct testing for pathogens and toxins for your final product? Do you hold those products from release until testing results reveal it is safe to do so?

 

 

Is it Safe to Feed Your Dog a Raw Meaty Bone?

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The topic of feeding meaty bones tends to drum up some controversy. Is it safe to feed your pet a raw meaty bone? Is it even beneficial to your pet? How do you know which bones are safe to feed? Let’s address some of these questions.

Raw meaty bones (RMBs) are safe to feed as long as they meet certain safety parameters:

  1. Meaty bones should be purchased from a reliable source with safe handling practices in place and that regularly tests their products for harmful pathogens. Use only RMBs sold specifically for pet consumption. In the U.S., a zero-tolerance policy for raw pet food products ensures that the product has not tested positive for pathogens such as E. Coli or Salmonella. In other words, you should not give your pets RMBs from a grocery store.
  2. Choose the appropriate size/type of bone for your pet. Small RMB’s like chicken necks are perfect for small dogs and cats, whereas turkey and duck necks are better suited for medium to large dogs. As a general rule, it is appropriate to feed a bone the size of your dog’s head. Most dogs, when fed an appropriate size bone, will chew the bone well before swallowing. However, if your dog is a “gulper” or is likely to try and swallow large things without chewing, a RMB may not be an ideal choice for your dog. If you have questions, our staff can help you decide which bones may be appropriate for your dog.
  3. As with all toys and chews, always monitor your dog when feeding bones. Although dogs usually know what to do with a bone, it is important to ensure they are not going to swallow it whole.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’S)

I give my dog marrow bones. Is that the same thing?

No. Marrow bones are known as ‘recreational bones’ because your pet should not be able to chew and consume the bone itself, but rather the tiny bits of fat, tissue, and cartilage left on the bone, as well as the inner bone marrow. ‘Raw meaty bones’ generally refer to bones that have more ‘meat’ on them and less bone, such as turkey and duck necks.

Do they eat the whole thing, bone and all?

Yes. Since RMBs are mostly thin bone, tissue, and cartilage, they are easy for your pet to break up, chew and swallow.

Do I let it thaw? 

No. It is not necessary to thaw your raw bones before feeding. However, some dogs and most cats prefer to have their bone thawed to soften the frozen tissue prior to feeding. If you must thaw the bone, leave it in the fridge for a couple of hours, or submerge it in cool water inside a plastic baggie to thaw it faster.

Should I cook it?

No. Never feed a cooked bone. Cooked bones can splinter, which can cause intestinal obstructions and perforations (not good!).

Which types of bones are safe to feed?

Do not feed weight-bearing bones of heavy animals. What does this mean? When you think of a large animal such as a cow, weight-bearing bones are those that allow the animal to stand properly, which can be too hard on your dog’s teeth.

Why should I offer my dog raw meaty bones?

Bones are an excellent addition to our pet’s diet, and here’s why:

  • They’re an excellent source of calcium, phosphorus, and glucosamine.
  • They can help with firmer stool.
  • They can help maintain cleaner teeth and better oral health.
  • They offer mental and physical enrichment for an overall happier (and less bored) pet.

How often should I feed my dog raw meaty bones?

Bones should be fed intermittently as a compliment to your pet’s regular diet. Feeding frequency will depend on your pet’s size, age, and activity level. While they can occasionally be fed in place of a meal, they should not be fed every day.

Should My Pet Switch to Raw Food?

Should My Pet Switch to Raw Food?

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Switching your dog or cat to raw food can bring many positive benefits to your pet, but there are important factors to consider.

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Nicci’s Secret Hack to Help Your Cat Drink More Water

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Do you know how much water your cat is drinking in a day? For most cat owners, the answer is going to be “not enough.” Find out Nicci’s easy trick to help your finicky feline stay well hydrated during the blistering days of summer.

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5 Important Tips You Need to Know About Pet Hydration

5 Important Tips You Need to Know About Pet Hydration

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Water is vital for life. In both humans and our pets, water helps regulate body temperature, supports cell function, keeps skin and joints healthy, aids in digestion, and cleanses the body of various toxins. Optimizing our pet’s daily water intake is critical to their well-being and longevity. 

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3 Simple Ways to Improve Dry Kibble

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Dry kibble is often the convenient food choice for dog owners. However, kibble isn’t always as healthy as the commercials lead us to believe. What if there was an easy and inexpensive way to make your pet’s kibble more tail-wagging exciting?

  1. Add a splash of water
  2. Add fresh food: green beans, broccoli, carrots (grated) blueberries, watermelon, leafy greens, etc.
  3. Add quality canned or freeze-dried food

Our 18 Best Lick Mat Treat Fillers

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edit+xClone Element
Lick mats are an effective tool to help pets that struggle with anxiety. At NorthPoint, we’re frequently asked about lick mat fillers. Here are our top suggestions for lick mat fillers!

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