AGOURA HILLS, CALIF. — LiefMed™ and FireOrganix™ announced Oct. 1 they have partnered to develop a water-soluble, CBD-infused dog treat under the brand name Vitality+.

The treat is formulated with Chaga mushrooms, a “superfood” fungi found in northern Europe, Asia and the United States. The mushroom provides a source of antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins B2, B3, D2 and K1, and digestive aids to support gastrointestinal health.

According to Justin Daly, chief executive officer of LiefMed, the company is sourcing Chaga mushrooms directly from native Inuit lands in Alaska using sustainable sourcing practices. The mushrooms are harvested exclusively during winter and removed without damaging their cores to allow individual regrowth, Daly added.

"Water-solubility was the key in selecting a CBD partner for this product," Daly said. "Dogs' bodies are made up of 60 to 80 percent water. Hemp is naturally an oil, so many products that deliver hemp in an oil format have limited absorption, which means less bioavailability.  We have worked with FireOrganix to source water-soluble CBD for other products and knew they could deliver."

FireOrganix uses a proprietary method to develop its range of water-soluble, hemp-derived CBD ingredients, which it supplies wholesale to companies interested in developing CBD products.

"Our proprietary Water-Soluble Technology (WST) reduces the size of the CBD molecules so they can more quickly be absorbed by the bloodstream. This ultimately means a better, more effective product – for humans and pets," said Britt Johnson, founder and chief executive officer of FireOrganix. "Consumers looking for quality appreciate science, and we are proud to be a part of the LiefMed portfolio."

Vitality+ treats are 100% plant-based, non-GMO and do not contain preservatives or fillers. They are available in three formulas for small, medium and large dogs.

Read more about new pet food and treat products.