Pioneering Research of Natural Compounds™ for Animal Health
We believe natural supplements for animals should be held to the same rigorous scientific standards as traditional options.
ElleVet has pioneered research into CBD + CBDA for animal health, with more than 40 clinical studies, over 23 peer-reviewed publications, and many more underway. Our landmark 2017 clinical trial with Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine found significant mobility improvements in over 75% of participating dogs with joint discomfort using ElleVet’s proprietary CBD + CBDA.
Our commitment to finding new ways to support pet health has led us to Ashwagandha and to expand our research into other Natural Compounds™. In separate studies of dogs already using ElleVet’s original chews, more than 70% of owners reported significant mobility improvements and more than 80% reported significant stress improvements when their dogs used our enhanced formulas.
Explore Studies Conducted by ElleVet Sciences
Pharmacokinetics, Safety, and Clinical Efficacy of Cannabidiol Treatment for Joint Mobility in Dogs – July 2018
The objectives of this study were to determine basic oral pharmacokinetics and assess the safety and analgesic efficacy of a CBD + CBDA based oil in dogs with joint discomfort. Prof. Dr. Joe Wakshlag conducted the study at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2017. The pharmacokinetic profile of CBD & CBDA and the clinical efficacy results suggest that 2 mg/kg of CBD + CBDA twice daily can help increase comfort and activity in dogs with joint discomfort). 75% of dogs in the study had a significant or dramatic positive response.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00165/full
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Pharmacokinetics and Preliminary Safety Assessment with Use of CBD-Rich Hemp Nutraceutical in Healthy Dogs and Cats – October 2019
This study examined the long-term safety and pharmacokinetics of ElleVet’s Proprietary Hemp CBD + CBDA blend on dogs and cats. The study was conducted in 2019 at The University of Florida Veterinary School under the direction of Dr. Deabold. This study showed that ElleVet hemp CBD + CBDA product is safe for dogs and cats and helped confirm the administration for both species.
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/9/10/832
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Serum cannabidiol, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and their native acid derivatives after transdermal application of a low THC Cannabis sativa extract in beagles – July 2020
This study examined the pharmacokinetics of a transdermal product in comparison to an oral administration of ElleVet CBD + CBDA. It was conducted at The University of Florida Veterinary School by Dr. Joe Wakshlag in 2019 and published in 2020. The study lasted two weeks and showed that only trace amounts of THCA and unquantifiable amounts of THC are found in the serum after either form of administration of ElleVet’s CBD + CBDA Hemp extract. Furthermore, the study demonstrated that CBDA and THCA were absorbed better systematically than CBD or THC.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/16/d1/5d/1789656585/jvp.12896.pdf?ts=1789656585
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Pharmacokinetics of Cannabidiol, Cannabidiolic Acid, Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol, Tetrahydrocannabinolic Acid and Related Metabolites in Canine Serum After Three Oral Forms of Hemp Extract – September 2020
This study’s primary objective was to provide pharmacokinetic information on ElleVet’s hemp extract when presented in three different oral forms. Firstly, the researchers looked at how much THC, THCA, CBD, and CBDA were absorbed depending on the different formulations tested. Secondly, they assessed if 11-OH-THC, the major intoxicating metabolite of THC, could be found in the dog’s serum. Lastly, they analyzed the clinical pathology profile of all animals to evaluate the safety of the different formulations when administered twice daily for 2 weeks at the recommended administration of 2 mg/kg. This study was conducted between 2019 and 2020 at The University of Florida Veterinary School.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00505/full
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The Use of ElleVet Sciences Calm & Comfort Acute Strength CBD+CBDA Chews for Stress Inducing Events in Dogs – June 2020
We conducted a pilot study to evaluate canine response to anxiety-producing events after receiving our new Calm and Comfort chews. This study was conducted in 2020 at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, and the results showed that 83% (20/24) dogs had decreased stress or anxiety-related behaviors after when given ElleVet Calm and Comfort chews up to two hours prior to a stress-triggering event.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/b9/3e/9f/1789655817/CC_White_Paper.pdf?ts=1789655858
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Cannabinoid, Terpene, and Heavy Metal Analysis of 29 Over-the-counter Commercial Veterinary Hemp Supplements – March 2020
We sourced 29 “hemp extract / CBD products for dogs” claiming to be made with low-THC Cannabis sativa extracts and sent blinded samples to a specialized and certified external laboratory for testing. All products were tested for major cannabinoids, major terpenes, and heavy metals to understand constituents in the hemp plants being extracted and distributed. This study was conducted in 2019 by scientists of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, ElleVet Science, and ProVerde Laboratories. Heavy metal contamination was found in 4/29 products, with lead being the most prevalent contaminant, 2 products had no cannabinoids in them and, of the remaining 27, only 10 were within 10% of the total cannabinoid concentrations of their label claim.
https://www.dovepress.com/cannabinoid-terpene-and-heavy-metal-analysis-of-29-over-the-counter-co-peer-reviewed-article-VMRR
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Oral Administration of Cannabigerol and Cannabigerolic Acid-Rich Hemp Extract in Fed and Fasted Dogs: Physiological Effect and Pharmacokinetic Evaluation – February 2022
The use of cannabinoids for pets has seen extraordinary growth over the past 5 years, and much attention and research has been focused around the use of CBD, but little has been researched regarding the acidic forms of the molecules. Until this study there were no research or papers on CBG or CBGA, which is surprising since CBG is the precursor molecule to cannabinoid formations in the plant. This study investigates similar administration of CBG and CBGA to better understand absorption and retention of these cannabinoids in dogs. Key takeaways of the study show that CBGA is absorbed 40 fold better than CBG in both fed and fasted states and no differences in serum concentrations were observed between states. Importantly, no adverse events, determined by physical exams, complete blood counts and serum chemistry evaluations were observed. While more research is needed, CBGA is more absorbable and retains serum concentrations for a greater length of time making is more likely to have pharmacological benefits.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/19/7f/95/1789656692/Vet-Pharm-Therapeutics-2022-Amstutz-Single-dose-and-chronic-oral-administration-of-cannabigerol-and-cannabigerolic.pdf?ts=1789656692
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The effect of a mixed cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid based oil on client-owned dogs with sensitive skin – May 2022
The purpose of this study was to determine if CBD/CBDA is an effective therapy for canine sensitive skin. Thirty-two privately owned dogs with refractory sensitive skin were enrolled from the Animal Dermatology and Allergy Service in the greater New York Area. After fulfilling inclusion criteria a prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study was performed. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive either 2 mg/kg of an equal mix of CBD/CBDA rich hemp from ElleVet Sciences (n = 17) or placebo for four weeks. Concurrent therapies were allowed if remained unchanged during the 4 weeks. The results showed that 65% of dogs in the study had a 50% or greater reduction in itching and 50% of those had a complete cessation of itching.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/vde.13077
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Safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of neurological events in dogs – July 2022
The objectives of this study were to determine the safety and efficacy of cannabidiol-cannabidiolic acid rich hemp extract in the treatment of neurological events in dogs. The results showed 40% of dogs had a 50% or greater reduction in neurological events over a 12 week period.
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2022.939966
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Twice-daily oral administration of a cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid–rich hemp extract was well tolerated in orange-winged Amazon parrots (Amazona amazonica) and has a favorable pharmacokinetic profile – February 2023
A study was conducted on orange-winged Amazon parrots with twice daily for 7 days administration of a full spectrum hemp extract with known CBs concentrations. This twice daily oral administration was well tolerated and resulted in target plasma concentrations without adverse effects at an administration based on 30/32.5 mg/kg of CBD/CBDA. Although there are similarities with mammal pharmacokinetic parameters, this study suggests that avian species could have differences in the cannabinoid metabolic pathway than mammals.
https://doi.org/10.2460/ajvr.22.11.0197
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Cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid: Preliminary in vitro evaluation of metabolism and drug-drug interactions involving canine cytochrome P-450, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase, and P-glycoprotein – July 2023
This study examined CBD + CBDA’s metabolism and potential drug-drug interactions involving canine cytochrome P-450 metabolism, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase conjugation, and P-glycoprotein drug efflux influences. The study, led by Dr. Michael H. Court of Washington State University, showed that CBD + CBDA are each metabolized differently in dogs, with P450 enzymes, particularly CYP1A2 and CYP2C21, playing a major role with CYP1A2 being the likely primary metabolizer of CBD. This is the first publication to suggest that CBDA skips the first step of the biotransformation and is directly glucuronidated (the glucose like molecule) on the carboxylic acid that makes CBD different from CBDA. According to pharmacokinetic profiling, this seminal publication suggests that at physiological concentrations achieved in the dog, significant inhibition of the tested cytochrome p450 enzymes is unlikely.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/jvp.13403
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The Case for Cannabigerol Dental Sticks for Oral Health in Dogs – March 2024
Chew style dentifrices like the ElleVet Dental Stick leverage mechanical action on the tooth surface to reduce plaque accumulation in dogs. Bite force testing confirms that the ElleVet Dental Stick has optimal density to allow for maximum abrasive action on tooth surfaces to decrease plaque accumulation. The inclusion of CBG aids in limiting bacterial growth and plaque formation. Most importantly, digestibility safety has been proven with the ElleVet Dental Stick showing over 80% digestibility in stomach and small intestinal assays, allowing us to provide a safe and effective dental stick.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/6b/d3/65/1789655830/white-paper-dental-stick.pdf?ts=1789655890
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Pharmacokinetics and tolerability of enteral cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid rich hemp in horses – April 2024
This study aimed to determine the pharmacokinetics and tolerability of 2 mg/kg and 8 mg/kg administration of CBD/CBDA-rich hemp product after enteral administration. Each horse was administered 2 mg/kg or 8 mg/kg or no treatment in a randomized cross-over design. Serial serum samples were collected over 48 hours and plasma chemistry analysis were performed and vital parameters, pedometry, and blinded mentation and gait evaluations were recorded. Manure production and gastrointestinal transit time were tracked for 48 h after oil administration. The median maximal concentration of CBD and CBDA were 5.2 and 36.95 ng/ mL in the 2 mg/kg group, respectively; and 40.35 and 353.56 ng/mL in the 8 mg/ kg group. No significant differences in any of the measured tolerability parameters were demonstrated between treatment groups. Enteral administration of CBD/CBDA-rich hemp extract up to 8 mg/kg does not appear to produce neurologic, behavioral, or gastrointestinal effects in horses.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/veterinary-science/articles/10.3389/fvets.2024.1356463/full
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Tolerability of 2 and 4 mg/kg Administration Every 12 Hour of a Cannabidiol- and Cannabidiolic Acid-Rich Hemp Extract on Mixed-Breed Dogs Utilized for Teaching in a Closed Colony – June 2024
This study aimed to examine the effects on dogs when using a 2 mg/kg and 4 mg/kg administration of CBD/CBDA-rich hemp product every 12 h in an academic teaching colony of dogs when compared to the consumption of a placebo soft-gel capsule every 12 h for two weeks. The results indicated that although there were serum concentrations of CBD in the 30–100 ng/mL concentration and 100–200 ng/mL concentration of CBDA, there were no adverse effects or behavioral changes observed regardless of the treatment used, thus showing that in normal healthy dogs, 2–4 mg/kg every 12 h appears to a safe regimen.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/a5/48/69/1789656563/animals-14-01863.pdf?ts=1789656563
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Pharmacokinetics and safety of oral administration of cannabidiol and cannabidiolic acid full spectrum hemp oil extracts in horses – January 2025
The aims of this study were to determine the safety of oral administration of CBD and CBDA and compare the pharmacokinetics in horses over 6 weeks. Both CBD and CBDA rich oils (1mg/kg) were administered orally twice daily over 6 weeks in a randomized crossover design. A 12-hour pharmacokinetic was conducted on day 1 of each 6-week trial and the cannabinoids safety was assessed via daily physical exam, periodic bloodwork, and liver biopsy at the beginning and end of the study. Results showed peak serum levels of CBDA were higher than CBD 103 vs 12 ng/mL as well as a greater AUC of 259 vs 62 ng-hr/mL. There were no clinically relevant serum chemistry changes for CBD or CBDA nor abnormalities in the liver. The clinical relevance of this study is that supplementation of CBD and CBDA at 1mg/kg in healthy horses is safe and considering the higher absorption of CBDA, its use is recommended to evaluate therapeutic efficacy of cannabinoids.
https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/aop/ajvr.24.08.0235/ajvr.24.08.0235.xml
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Owner-Reported Results of Full-Spectrum Hemp Pellets on the Mobility and Behavior of Horses – January 2025
The objective of this clinical trial was to evaluate the effects of ElleVet’s whole hemp pellets – containing a 50/50 mixture of CBD and CBDA – in horses with mobility and behavioral issues, as reported by their owners. Previous studies by ElleVet on its own unique, proprietary strain of hemp have demonstrated statistically significant support for mobility and behavioral issues in dogs, and found that CBDA, the precursor of CBD, may have a greater effect at lower administrations than CBD. When looking at horse owner perception of discomfort and behavior, the results of this study suggests a positive response to supplementation with CBD and CBDA in horses
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/b4/2e/f4/1789655822/EV_WHITE-PAPER_Equine-Pellets.pdf?ts=1789655870
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Effect on Mobility of a CBD/CBDA-rich Full-Spectrum Hemp Paste in Cats – October 2025
This study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of a CBD + CBDA based paste in cats experiencing joint discomfort. Previous studies have demonstrated statistically significant support for mobility in dogs and horses. The randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled crossover study was conducted over 14 weeks at the University of Utrecht. A 2mg/kg twice daily administration was demonstrated to be well-tolerated. CBD + CBDA paste effectively improved comfort and activity in cats, as evaluated by both veterinary clinicians and cat owners using industry-validated scoring tools. Positive responses were noted as early as 2 weeks after starting administration.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1098612X251367629
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Effect of CBD/CBDA in Client-owned Cats on Urinary Behavior – November 2025
The objective of this open-label trial was to evaluate the effects of ElleVet’s soft gels containing CBD + CBDA-rich hemp oil on social and urinary behavior in cats. Cats with owner-identified urinary and social behavior challenges were administered approximately 2mg/kg CBD + CBDA in soft gel capsules twice daily for 6 weeks. Pre- and post- administration questionnaires were collected demonstrating improvement in multiple behavioral and urinary parameters, including litter-box habits and interactions with people and other pets. The success rate, determined by the owner’s impression of overall improvement in social or urinary behavior, was 80% (12/15). Two-thirds of the owners reported that signs were mostly or completely resolved by the end of the 6-week period.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/21/4d/53/1789655826/EV_WHITE-PAPER_Feline-Urinary-Study.pdf?ts=1789655881
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Effect of Twice-Daily Oral ElleVet Cognitive + Calm Soft Chews on Stress-Related Behaviors in Dogs: An Open Label mC-BARQ Field Evaluation – September 2026
This was an open-labeled study using current ElleVet Customers who were using our original ElleVet Chews for stress related support. After four weeks on our new ElleVet Veterinary Strength Cognitive and Calm with supplemental ashwagandha, l-theanine, and hydrolyzed casein at clinically significant concentration, we observed a meaningful difference in stress behaviors showing improvements in 2-weeks with further improvements of stress behaviors from the 2-to-4-week time frame. These results show how administration of an enhanced natural compound chew twice a day improved calmness and the human animal bond.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/85/0b/5b/1789661619/EV_WHITE-PAPER_IHUT-Cognitive.pdf?ts=1790882334
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Owner-assessed Improvement in Comfort and Mobility in Dogs with Joint Discomfort Following Four Weeks of ElleVet Mobility + Joint Soft Chews Administration – September 2026
This was an open-labeled study using current ElleVet customers who were using our original ElleVet Chews for mobility support for their dogs. 54 dogs were followed for 4 weeks using our new ElleVet Veterinary Strength chews, which included primarily CBD + CBDA plus Ashwagandha, and included other scientifically proven ingredients including avocado soybean unsaponifiable, UC-IIⓇ (undenatured collagen type II), and hydrolyzed casein product. Owners completed the validated CBPI surveys at baseline, and 2 and 4 weeks after starting the new product. Across the survey there was a 35-40% improvement in all aspects of dogs’ activity and comfort with some indices showing further improvement from the 2-to-4-week time period. These data show the superiority of using a multicomponent natural compounds product when compared to our original formulation.
https://www.ellevetsciences.com/media/66/f7/ec/1789661624/EV_WHITE-PAPER_IHUT-Mobility.pdf?ts=1789661624
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The ElleVet Advantage: Science First
The Science Behind CBD + CBDA
CBD and CBDA are Natural Compounds found in the hemp plant that work together to support comfort, calm, and overall wellbeing by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The ECS is one of the largest receptor systems in the body. All mammals have an endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is one of the oldest systems in the mammalian body.
It functions both as an immunomodulatory and a neuromodulatory system and is essential for stress recovery as well as maintaining homeostasis in the body.
Whatever is not functioning as it should, whether that be an inflammatory response, a cognitive issue, or a digestive issue is brought back into balance by the ECS. There is virtually no physiological or cognitive process that isn’t related in some manner to the ECS.
How do Cannabinoids work with the Endocannabinoid System?
Cannabinoid receptors are G coupled protein receptors found throughout the body and brain, and cannabinoids will bind with and stimulate these receptors. The body produces its own cannabinoids, called endocannabinoids, which are the endogenous lipids. Anandamide and 2-AG are the primary endocannabinoids. Anandamide is also known as the bliss molecule, and these are ligands for the cannabinoid receptors and will activate the receptors in order to maintain tight control of bodily functions.
One example might be that when a body is overheated and sweating begins, that is the ECS regulating temperature. When phytocannabinoids, or cannabinoids from a plant such as hemp, are added, it is bringing in extra help to regulate and reign in whatever is out of balance by further activating the appropriate cannabinoid receptors. Interestingly, only the proper receptors are activated to address the specific issue, such as overheating, and other functions in the body are not subjected to overstimulation.
This is helpful in understanding how CBD + CBDA formulations such as ElleVet’s, can address multiple issues in pets such as discomfort, stress, or cognitive function.
Understanding Receptors and Terpenes
Cannabinoid receptors are found throughout the brain and body and are activated when CBD + CBDA, terpenes, and other, smaller cannabinoids are introduced in the body.
Receptors
A widely held belief is that the CB1 and CB2 receptors are the receptor systems involved in processing cannabinoids. Go to any CBD company website and you will see a diagram of the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the body of a dog or cat. This is outdated and incorrect information! ElleVet’s research has shown that it is far more complex and that the receptors involved include the TRP, GPR, PPAR-g GPR55, 5HT, glycine, and adenosine uptake receptors.
Terpenes
Terpenes are additional compounds found in the hemp plant and are best known for their smell. However, they are important in other ways, such as promoting calm or helping with an anti-inflammatory response. Terpenes work together with cannabinoids to work synergistically to create an overall better effect, which is called the entourage effect.
ElleVet’s proprietary formulation contains a robust terpene profile that contributes to the effectiveness of our CBD + CBDA products.
How Could Ashwagandha Benefit Dogs?
Ashwagandha has long been used to support calm behavior and a normal stress response.
Modern research shows it can promote calm without sedation and overall feelings of wellbeing. Naturally rich in antioxidants, Ashwagandha can also help support joints for more comfortable movement.
ElleVet uses the whole plant Ashwagandha to offer meaningful support for helping dogs stay relaxed, resilient, and moving comfortably.
A Closer Look at Natural Compounds™
From joint health and mobility to calm behavior and overall comfort, explore the key nature-derived compounds in ElleVet’s formulations in addition to CBD + CBDA and Ashwagandha, and the role each plays in supporting pets.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound that helps promote and maintain healthy cartilage for mobility, healthy joints, and overall comfort.
Chondroitin
Chondroitin is a naturally occurring compound that promotes comfortable movement by supporting joint cushioning and flexibility.
UC-II®
A specialized form of collagen, UC-II® works with the immune system to help maintain a healthy joint environment, supporting joint mobility and comfort to help pets continue to move with ease.
Avocado / Soybean Unsaponifiable (ASU)
ASU is a natural compound shown to help promote healthy joints and cartilage for easier, more comfortable movement.
Hydrolyzed Casein
Hydrolyzed Casein works on a cellular level to support joint health, comfort, and mobility, helping pets stay active and on the move.
ElleVet also uses another form of Hydrolyzed Casein that contains a naturally occurring peptide that’s been proven to promote a sense of calm and relaxation without sedation.
L-Theanine
This proven natural compound supports the brain's natural calming signals to help cats and dogs stay calm and relaxed, while staying engaged and responsive.
Phosphatidylserine
A phospholipid naturally found in cell membranes, this compound supports neuronal membrane function, neurotransmission, and brain cell signaling for cognitive wellbeing and stress resilience.
ElleVet is interested in working with Universities and Foundations on clinical trials using our products. All trials funded will be based on a cost-reimbursable basis with a maximum of 25% of indirect costs paid out, subject to contract terms and conditions.