When Viral Icon Doug The Pug Got Sick, His Family Created A Cannabis Brand: ‘CBD Offers Real Benefits For Pets’
“Every dog owner has the goal of increased longevity with their dogs,” says Leslie Mosier, displaying the passion of a devoted pet parent. This sentiment is at the heart of why she, alongside her partner Rob Chianelli, launched Nonipup, a brand born from necessity and nurtured through personal challenges and triumphs.
Leslie’s journey into the pet wellness industry was precipitated by Doug the Pug’s severe health scare. “I then realized I had to work on my dog’s own prevention and lifestyle as I was personally responsible for it,” she explains.
Witnessing Doug’s health issues firsthand transformed her perspective on pet care, mirroring her own health struggles with endometriosis and her husband’s battle with multiple sclerosis. “We had to ‘clean up’ our home,” Leslie explains, highlighting the revelation they had about harmful ingredients found both in human products and those meant for their canine companions. This epiphany led to Nonipup, a testament to their commitment to quality, safety and the well-being of pets.
Doug The Pug’s CBD Predilection
The introduction of CBD into Nonipup’s product line was a natural progression, driven by an acknowledgment of its therapeutic benefits. “CBD and other beneficial cannabinoids offer so many benefits to our pets,” Leslie notes. She elaborates on its effectiveness in alleviating issues such as joint pain, mobility problems and anxiety, particularly among aging dogs. Ensuring the highest standards for these products, Nonipup employs a rigorous formulation process. Ian Pedersen, the company’s director of medical hemp CBD research, brings more than 24 years of experience in the hemp and cannabis industries. “The amount of time, research and forethought put into formulating Nonipup CBD products were the keys to allowing us to bring such an impactful product to the pet community,” Leslie says.
This rigorous development is further supported by Rita Hogan, a top canine herbalist, who formulated some of Nonipup’s salves and products. Her extensive knowledge and expertise have been instrumental in creating effective and safe wellness solutions for pets.
Doug & Nonipup. SWAK PHOTOGRAPHY
The global pet care market is projected to reach $241 billion by 2026, with a growing segment dedicated to natural wellness products like CBD. “The demand is incredibly high for holistic dog products that are safe and effective,” Leslie observes. As cancer rates rise among dogs, pet owners are increasingly seeking trustworthy, natural alternatives to traditional pharmaceuticals.
Yet, Leslie and her team are navigating the complex regulatory landscape surrounding CBD products with a focus on education and transparency. “With the implementation of the Agricultural Innovation Act of 2019 known as the Hemp Act, it has allowed for the deregulation of the hemp plant and its extracts across …