Description
QUICK SUMMARY
This protocol helps with: anxiety, aggression, overstimulation, separation anxiety and chronic stress in dogs and cats. Behavioral problems often have a physical cause: an overactive nervous system, a disturbed gut-brain axis or a shortage of neurotransmitter precursors. This protocol addresses that cause.
Why a protocol and not just behavioral training?
Behavioural training is valuable, but has limited effect if the animal’s nervous system cannot calm itself down due to a biochemical deficiency or imbalance. Serotonin, GABA, dopamine and cortisol are the neurochemical building blocks of behaviour. If these are out of balance due to deficiencies in precursors, an overactive HPA axis or a disturbed microbiome, the animal is physiologically unable to learn to relax.
The gut-brain axis is a key concept here: 90% of the serotonin in the body is produced in the gut. An imbalance in the microbiome produces fewer serotonin precursors and more pro-inflammatory substances that affect brain function. As a result, many behavioural problems in dogs and cats have an intestinal component that is rarely included in the standard behavioural approach.
The Behavioural Protocol supports the nervous system, stress hormone balance and gut health at the same time. Combined with behavioral training, this gives the best results.
How does the Conduct Protocol work?
The protocol works on three layers simultaneously: direct neurotransmitter support for rapid effect, HPA-axis repair for lasting effect, and gut health as the underlying foundation. The first layer is noticeable within days, the second within weeks, the third within months.
Relax Support provides L-theanine for direct alpha brainwave modulation, L-tryptophan as a serotonin precursor, and magnesium as a nervous system cofactor. CBD oil modulates the endocannabinoid system for anxiety and pain regulation. Myco Adaptogen Complex provides Reishi for calming via histamine inhibition and Lion’s Mane for NGF stimulation. This layer is noticeable within days to a week.
Adaptogen Complex restores the HPA axis via ashwagandha (cortisol modulation and GABA activation) and rhodiola (energy recovery and resilience). This takes two to four weeks to give full effect but provides more lasting stress resistance than direct sedatives. Liposomal Vitamin B-Complex supplements the B vitamins that the nervous system uses extra in case of chronic stress.
Animals with chronic stress complaints actually also have intestinal complaints by definition because the stress causes dysbiosis via the gut-brain axis. This in turn worsens the behavioral complaints in a vicious circle. A first step in this is intestinal support with prebiotics. Prebiotic Fibers feeds the bacteria that produce serotonin, dopamine and GABA directly and indirectly. To really tackle a chronic behavioral problem at the base, a bowel protocol is absolutely recommended.
When do you see results?
Behavioural change takes time. From a systems biology point of view, the HPA axis recovers more slowly than neurotransmitters respond. Expect a first wave of effect via the direct nervous system support, followed by a deeper stabilization via adaptogens and gut health.
L-theanine and CBD are active. First signs of more rest and less overreaction to stress stimuli.
Adaptogens are active. Calmer basic level, better sleep, less overstimulation. Increased learning capacity for behavioral training.
HPA axis restored. Significantly calmer behavior. Less anxious reactions. Better interaction with environment and owner.
Structurally more balanced animal. Behavioral training more effective. Adjust or reduce the protocol in consultation based on results.
Don’t see any improvement after six weeks? Schedule an intake with integrative veterinarian Stefan Veenstra. Severe fear or aggression always requires a combined approach with a behavioural therapist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I combine this protocol with medication for anxiety or aggression from the vet?
Yes, in many cases this protocol can be used as a supplement to regular medication. Always discuss this with the prescribing veterinarian, especially when combining it with sedative medication or antidepressants.
Do I have to start all three layers at the same time?
No, you can start with layer 1 for immediate effect and add the other layers in the following weeks. In case of acute or severe complaints, we recommend starting all three layers simultaneously for the fastest and most complete result.
Does this protocol also work for fireworks or noise anxiety that only occurs occasionally?
In the case of occasional anxiety, such as around New Year’s Eve, layer 1 (direct nervous system support) is especially relevant and you can start it shortly in advance. In the case of chronic anxiety or stress, the full three-layer approach is needed for a sustainable result.
Is this protocol also suitable for cats?
Yes, anxiety, overstimulation, and stress-related behaviors also occur in cats, and the underlying neurochemical and gut-brain-axis mechanisms are similar. Dosages and product choice are adapted to the cat.
Why the NGD Care Behavioral Protocol?
| Characteristic | NGD Care Behavioral Protocol | Standard approach |
|---|---|---|
| Approach | Neurochemical: neurotransmitters, HPA axis and gut-brain axis | Behavioral training or medication separately |
| Side effects | ✅ Minimal, no sedation or addiction | Pharmaceutical tranquilizers: sedation and side effects |
| Gut-brain axis | ✅ Included as the third pillar of the protocol | ❌ Rarely included in behavioural approach |
| Scientifically substantiated | ✅ Yes ashwagandha RCT dogs 2024, CBD osteoarthritis RCT | Variable |
| Developed by veterinarian | ✅ Stefan Veenstra DVM | Rarely |
| Personal guidance | ✅ Intake possible via Naturally Healthy Animals | ❌ Not available |
Is this protocol suitable for my animal?
In case of serious aggression, always call in a certified behavioural therapist. This protocol is an addition to, not a substitute for, behavioral therapy.
Want to read the full scientific background?
Stefan Veenstra DVM explains how the gut-brain axis works and why neurochemical and gut balance is the basis for behavioral change.
Supplements in this protocol
Developed and clinically substantiated by Stefan Veenstra DVM, integrative veterinarian. Stefan is the founder of NGD Care, NGD Care Academy and Integrative Veterinary Center Natural Healthy Animals. Read more about Stefan →
This protocol is educational in nature and does not replace a veterinary consultation. In case of serious aggression, always call in a certified behavioural therapist.
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