Pets, Plant-Based Therapies & Emotional Support: How CMed Is Expanding Wellness Through ESA Services

The bond between humans and animals has long been a source of emotional comfort, healing, and resilience. Now, as veterinary science and the medical cannabis community explore the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for animals, a new chapter in integrative wellness is emerging—one where emotional support animals (ESAs) play a pivotal role in mental health care.

CMed is proud to be part of this evolution, offering ESA certification services that help people access the benefits of animal companionship as part of their wellness plan.

CBD for Pets: A Growing Global Conversation

In a recent feature for New Frontier Data, Avida Global’s Global Strategy Director, Heidi Whitman, shared insights on the growing use of CBD for pets—especially in Europe and the U.K.

Whitman, co-founder of Naked Leaf (a CBD brand for people and pets acquired in 2019), noted that while CBD use for pets has been growing in the U.S. for years, international markets are now following suit. Regulatory hurdles still exist—such as the U.K.’s Veterinary Medicines Directorate requiring stringent prescriptions—but education and public demand are shifting perspectives.

Research and anecdotal evidence suggest CBD may support pets dealing with:

• Pain & arthritis

• Anxiety & stress

• Seizures and neurological disorders

In Colombia, Avida Global is collaborating with four universities on veterinary CBD research—including work at Cali Zoo, where cannabis-based treatments have been used for a hyena with arthritis, an anxious bear, anorexic snakes, and even an electric eel exhibiting self-harming behaviors.

In the U.S., Cornell University and the University of Colorado have been leaders in exploring pet-safe cannabinoid use, particularly in osteoarthritis and pain management.

Beyond CBD: The Power of Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

While CBD research for pets is still evolving, one truth is already well established: Pets profoundly impact human emotional health. For people living with anxiety, PTSD, depression, or chronic stress, animals can provide daily emotional grounding and comfort.

That’s why CMed is now offering ESA Certification Services, helping patients legally recognize their pet’s emotional support role. These certifications can help with:

• Housing protections under the Fair Housing Act

• Documentation for therapeutic use and travel (where applicable)

• Support in managing mental health with animal-assisted wellness

Research shows that interacting with pets can:

• Lower cortisol (stress hormone) levels

• Reduce blood pressure

• Increase dopamine and serotonin—the “feel-good” brain chemicals

CMed’s ESA Services Include:

✅ ESA letters from licensed healthcare providers
✅ Virtual evaluations from the comfort of home
✅ Fast turnaround and easy online intake process
✅ Ongoing patient support and guidance

We aim to support both ends of the leash—with services rooted in compassion, science, and accessibility.

Where CMed Fits in the Future of Pet Wellness

As Whitman points out, the rise of CBD for pets is part of a broader movement in how we view animal health and its connection to human wellness. While laws differ by country, public awareness and scientific research are steadily moving the conversation forward.

At CMed, we believe wellness isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether it’s helping a patient navigate mental health challenges with an ESA, or staying informed on promising complementary therapies for pets, our mission is to empower people with access to compassionate, evidence-informed care.

Ready to recognize your pet as an ESA?
Start your application today and take the next step toward whole-body—and whole-being—wellness.
👉 Learn more about ESA services at CMed

Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute veterinary or medical advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before starting any new therapy for your pet, including CBD products.