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Monthly Archives: October 2023

10, Oct 2023
The Lowdown on CBD Oil and Pet Anxiety

It seems anything is open for discussion when it comes to keeping our pets happy. CBD oil is creating waves in pet healthcare. 

An increasing number of pet owners are in with this trend. A cannabis market research firm report found that the CBD oil product vategory increased by over 900% in 2019. The upward trend began immediately after the 2018 Farm Bill passed. The new legislation lifted legal restrictions, making it easier for people to sell CBD products. Dog Whisperer Cesar Millan also jumped on the CBD oil product bandwagon. 

Here’s the lowdown on CBD oil and its effects on pet anxiety. 

What is CBD oil?

CBD oil for pets comes in many forms. They include lotions, capsules, and treats. The full name of CBD is cannabidiol, a compound present in hemp and cannabis, the primary source of marijuana. commercial CDB oil does not contain THC (delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol) that produces the high associated with marijuana. 

At any rate, the critical thing to note is that CBD oil will not be the gateway for your pet in any way. The question is, what does it do?

CBD oil use

Pet owners consider using CBD oil to help their dogs overcome Health issues like seizures, pain, anxiety, and some skin diseases. Supporters also claim it can increase appetite, work as an anti-cancer agent, suppress nausea, and improve cardiac function. 

However, there is no actual study into the efficacy of CBD oil for dogs and other pets, unlike pet wheelchairs. Any research on the topic have such small sample sizes that it produced no definitive conclusion. Scientists concede that cannabinoids, in general, can help keep the body healthy and balanced, but not CBD oil in particular. 

Anecdotal evidence alone indicates that CBD oil effectively controls seizures and alleviates neuropathic pain in pets. There is a move to sponsor a study into the effects of CBD oil in treatment-resistant epileptic dogs by the AKC Canine Health Foundation in partnership with the Colorado State University, but that is for the future. Currently, no concrete evidence exists that CBD oil works as claimed in pets. 

Those claiming CBD oil’s efficacy say giving a dog the right dose is essential. However, since there is no actual study on this, the basis of any site that provides dose recommendations is more best guess than science. This is a classic chicken-and-egg scenario.

Side effects

The lack of scientific data on the efficacy of CBD oil for pets also includes side effects. However, human studies are a suitable proxy until future data says otherwise. 

The potential CBD oil side effects in pets include:

  • Blood pressure dips
  • Drowsiness
  • Dry mouth
  • Light-headedness

These possible side effects may not be observable to the pet owner, except drowsiness, which would be expected as CBD oil has a calming effect.  Increased thirstiness may be due to CBD oil, but may also be due to the weather. 

Whether CBD oil works or not, more is not automatically better. It is probably safe in small doses, but you should be ready for adverse reactions. Additionally, the FDA has not published a dosage chart for pets, so the toxic dose is unknown. Vets may not prescribe it for pets, even those in dog wheelchairs. That said, they can educate you about it so you can make an informed decision. 

5, Oct 2023
Construction Mortgages: Building Your Dream Home Step by Step

Introduction

Building your dream home can be an exciting journey, but it often requires a significant financial investment. This is where construction mortgages come into play. These specialized loans provide the funding you need to turn your vision into a reality. In this article, we will explore what construction mortgages are, how they work, and the steps involved in securing one.

understanding Construction Mortgages

A construction mortgage, also known as a construction loan, is a short-term loan specifically designed to finance the construction of a new home or major renovation. Unlike traditional mortgages that provide a lump sum upfront, construction mortgages release funds in stages, corresponding to different phases of the construction process. This unique structure is one of the key features that distinguish construction mortgages from regular home loans.

How Construction Mortgages Work

1. Application and Approval:
  The first step in obtaining a construction mortgage is to apply with a lender. During the application process, you’ll need to provide detailed plans and cost estimates for your construction project. Lenders will review your credit history, financial stability, and the feasibility of your project before approving your loan.

2. Budget Assessment:
  Once approved, the lender will work with you to determine the total budget for your project. This budget will include the cost of land, labor, materials, permits, and any other expenses associated with construction.

3. Disbursement Schedule:
  With the budget in place, the lender will create a disbursement schedule that outlines when and how funds will be released. Typically, payments are made in installments, such as at the completion of foundation work, framing, Roofing, and so on. Each release is subject to an inspection to ensure the work has been completed as specified.

4. Interest-Only Payments:
  During the construction phase, you will typically make interest-only payments on the disbursed funds. This allows you to manage your cash flow more effectively as you won’t be required to make full mortgage payments until construction is complete.

5. Transition to Permanent Mortgage:
  Once construction is finished, you’ll need to transition from the construction mortgage to a permanent mortgage, also known as an end loan. This process involves a second loan application, credit assessment, and potentially a new interest rate negotiation. It’s crucial to plan for this transition in advance.

Benefits of Construction Mortgages

1. Customization:
  Construction mortgages provide the flexibility to design and build your dream home exactly as you envision it. You have control over every aspect of the project, from the layout to the finishes.

2. Interest Savings:
  Since you’re only paying interest on the funds disbursed during the construction phase, you can potentially save money compared to a traditional mortgage where you pay interest on the entire loan amount from day one.

3. Equity Building:
  As your home is constructed, its value typically increases. This means you’re building equity in your property even before you move in, which can be beneficial in the long run.

Challenges of Construction Mortgages

1. Complexity:
  Construction mortgages are more complex than standard home loans. The application process, disbursement schedule, and transition to a permanent mortgage require careful planning and documentation.

2. Higher Interest Rates:
  Interest rates for construction mortgages are often higher than those for traditional mortgages, reflecting the higher risk associated with construction projects.

3. Cost Overruns:
  Construction projects can sometimes encounter unexpected expenses. It’s important to have a contingency fund in place to cover any cost overruns that may arise during the construction process.

Conclusion

Construction mortgages offer a valuable financing option for those looking to build their dream homes or undertake significant renovations. While they come with unique challenges, the ability to customize your home and build equity early in the process can make them a compelling choice. If you’re considering a construction mortgage, it’s essential to work closely with a knowledgeable lender and have a well-thought-out construction plan in place. With the right preparation and guidance, you can turn your dream home into a reality, one carefully planned step at a time.