Pubdate: Sat, 12 Nov 2005
Source: Ottawa Citizen (CN ON)

Copyright: 2005 The Ottawa Citizen
Contact:  http://www.canada.com/ottawa/ottawacitizen/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/326
Author: Jennifer Campbell

HEMP FOR FIDO

It's Hip For Humans, Now Dogs Can Join The Fun

Pampered pooches can now get hip with hemp. The folks at KicX 
Nutrition Inc. have found a way to get hemp, touted as nature's 
richest source of essential fatty acids, into Rover's chow. NuHemp 
products, according to the advertising materials, give pets "a 
healthy boost ... naturally."

The Guelph company partnered with a Barrie company called Hempola to 
come up with an all-natural line of fortified, hemp-infused dietary 
supplements that include "gourmet" sauces, treats and "soothing 
topical gel." They claim the products "support health, vitality and 
longevity" in dogs.

For pumping up the pup, there's PrOmega powder, which contains hemp 
protein powder, said to be an excellent source of essential fibres 
and vegetable proteins. PAWZitive Therapy Conditioning & Protective 
Stick -- a canine spa product if ever there was one -- protects the 
pads of the dog's feet against cold, ice and salt. And on the 
first-aid front, there's MSM Soothing Topical Gel that heals inflammation.

Doug Daymond, president of KicX, said they decided to launch the 
dog-food line because of the many benefits of hemp. The growing 
hipness of hemp in the consumer community was also a factor.

"The giggle factor of hemp is quickly disappearing," he said, adding 
that the buzz around hemp is impressive. His booth at a Canadian pet 
industry trade show in Toronto in September was the busiest at the show.

Hempola, which has garnered compliments from Hollywood stars after 
being included in gift bags for recipients of the American Music 
Awards and a fundraiser co-hosted by the Osbourne family and Elton 
John, makes a full line of hempseed products including pancake mix 
(endorsed by Nickelback's Chad Kroeger), soap, cooking oil and lip balm.

Riding on Hempola's success, perhaps NuHemp, to be available only in 
pet stores, will make its way into Hollywood's rhinestone-studded dog dishes.
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MAP posted-by: Beth Wehrman