Behavior Support Program
The NGD Care Behavior Support Program is a three-phase supplement schedule for dogs and cats, formulated for peace and relaxation and to remain balanced in stressful situations. It works well alongside training and guidance.
- A three-phase supplement program.
- Formulated for peace and relaxation.
- A supplement to training and guidance.
- Consult your veterinarian first if your pet is on medication.
Description
QUICK SUMMARY
The Behavior Support Program is a three-phase supplement schedule for dogs and cats, formulated for peace and relaxation and to remain balanced in stressful situations.
Why a program and not a single supplement or just behavioral training?
Training and guidance are the foundation. Additionally, behavior is linked to the body’s biochemistry. Neurotransmitters such as serotonin, GABA, and dopamine, and the stress hormone cortisol, play a role in how an animal reacts. The body creates these neurotransmitters from nutritional building blocks, such as the amino acid L-tryptophan.
The gut-brain axis is a key concept here. Most of the serotonin in the body—about 90% in humans—is produced in the gut. This serotonin does not reach the brain directly, but the gut and brain are connected via nerves and signaling substances. Gut bacteria produce substances currently being researched in this context, which is why gut flora is also part of this program.
The Behavior Support Program is therefore formulated around the stress response, neurotransmitters, and the gut.
Four processes behind peace and relaxation
Behavior is much more than character. How an animal reacts is related to the stress response, neurotransmitters, the body’s own signaling system, and the gut. This program was developed from this systems biology perspective. It is a supplement to training and guidance.
During tension, the brain sends a signal via the HPA axis to the adrenal gland, which releases cortisol. The autonomic nervous system also reacts, releasing adrenaline among others. This prepares the body for action.
Nerve cells pass on signals using neurotransmitters. Serotonin is made from the amino acid L-tryptophan, with vitamin B6 as a cofactor. Magnesium plays a role in transmitting impulses.
The body has its own signaling system with receptors like CB1 and CB2 and endogenous substances such as anandamide. This system is being studied in relation to the stress response. CBD is being researched in relation to this system.
The gut and brain are connected via the vagus nerve and signaling substances. Gut bacteria produce substances being researched in this context. Therefore, the maintenance phase also contains fibers for the gut flora.
Why this order?
First come magnesium, amino acids, and plant extracts. These are followed by mushrooms and B vitamins, and finally a maintenance phase that also includes fibers for the gut flora.
How does the Behavior Support Program work?
The program consists of three consecutive phases, with nutrition as the foundation. The ingredients are listed for each supplement.
Regular meals are part of a fixed rhythm. The amino acid L-tryptophan, the building block of serotonin, is found in protein-rich foods.
Variation in fresh meat as a base: beef, chicken, lamb, game, fish, etc. Preferably raw (BARF, or Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, or KVV). Rotate protein sources regularly.
20% pureed vegetables added to the meal: zucchini, spinach, broccoli, carrot, pumpkin, etc. Pureed and steamed, they are more digestible for dogs and cats.
Want guidance on switching to different food? Schedule an intake with Stefan Veenstra DVM via NatuurlijkGezondeDieren.nl.
The starting phase contains substances associated with neurotransmitters in the nerves and the stress response. CBD oil contains CBD, which is being studied in relation to the endocannabinoid system. That system plays a role in the stress response. Relax Support contains L-tryptophan and vitamin B6, which the body uses to produce serotonin, and L-theanine and magnesium, which are involved in the transmission of nerve impulses. Adaptogen Complex contains ashwagandha and rhodiola. These plants are being studied in relation to the HPA axis, the pathway through which the adrenal gland releases cortisol.
From week 4, substances are added that support the nervous system and cellular energy. Myco Adaptogen Complex contains lion’s mane, reishi, chaga and cordyceps. Lion’s mane is being studied in relation to nerve growth factor, a protein required by nerve cells. Liposomal Vitamin B-Complex provides B vitamins, the cofactors for energy production and the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the nerves.
In the maintenance phase, the gut-brain axis is addressed. Prebiotic Fibers contains fibers for the gut flora. Gut bacteria produce substances that are being studied in relation to the gut-brain axis. Adaptogen Complex continues from the starting phase, as plant extracts such as ashwagandha are typically administered over several weeks in research. Myco Adaptogen Complex continues from phase 2 for the same reason: these mushrooms are also administered over longer periods in research.
How do you use the program?
Give the supplements twice daily for the first month. Thereafter, give them once daily. You will find the dosage per weight for each supplement. Consult your veterinarian first if your pet is on medication.
Do you have questions during the program, or want to tailor the schedule to your pet? Schedule an intake with integrative veterinarian Stefan Veenstra.
Frequently asked questions
Does this replace training?
No. This program is a supplement to training and guidance.
Can this be used with medication?
Consult your veterinarian first, especially with products that affect the nervous system.
Is this suitable for cats?
Yes, paying attention to the dosage per product. For CBD oil, start with 1 drop for cats.
What if my pet suddenly behaves differently?
Have this assessed by a veterinarian first, as behavior can also have a physical cause.
Why the NGD Care Behavior Support Program?
| Feature | NGD Care |
|---|---|
| Composition | A schedule with NGD Care supplements, in a fixed order. |
| Human grade | We use human-grade ingredients. |
| Individual guidance | Would you like personal advice for your animal? This is possible via a consultation with Stefan Veenstra. |
Scientific literature
- Panossian A, Wikman G. (2010). Effects of adaptogens on the central nervous system and the molecular mechanisms associated with their stress-protective activity. Pharmaceuticals.
- de Baaij JHF, et al. (2015). Magnesium in man: implications for health and disease. Physiological Reviews.
- Parra M, et al. (2018). Vitamin B6 and its role in cell metabolism and physiology. Cells.
- Hidese S, et al. (2019). Effects of L-theanine administration on stress-related symptoms and cognitive functions in healthy adults. Nutrients.
- Silver RJ. (2019). The endocannabinoid system of animals. Animals.
Want to read more about nutrients and body processes?
In the knowledge base, you’ll find background articles about nutrition and how the body works. Have a question about this program or want personal advice? Feel free to contact us.
Developed 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 information is educational in nature and does not replace a veterinary consultation. In case of severe or persistent complaints, always consult a veterinarian.
Ingredients, dosage and use
- See the individual ingredients
- For the first month, we recommend a double therapeutic dose of 2x daily. Then a maintenance dose of 1x daily.
- Each phase is suitable for a treatment of 2-4 months for a dog or cat <10kg and for 1-2 months for a dog of 10-30kg.
Disclaimer
- This product is a dietary supplement and not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle and varied balanced diet.
- The products are not medicines and cannot be used as medicines, but as a dietary supplement. In case of illness or other medical condition, always consult a veterinarian before use.
- Dietary supplements may have interactions and side effects with regular medications.
- Keep out of reach of young children.
- Consult an expert before using supplements in case of pregnancy, lactation, medication use and illness.
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