Canine Cognitive Dysfunction (CCD) is assumed to be the problem whenever a middle-aged to older dog has unexplained issues with some combination of insomnia, pacing, panting, whining, hyperreactivity, fussing, detachment, and anxiety. Many different costly drugs are often tried but often bring just an hour or two of relief. The good news, though, is that not all dogs with these symptoms have CCD.
Insomnia, agitation, lack of focus, anxiety, spinning, and restlessness are all symptoms of an excessive response to stress by the adrenal glands, such as PTSD in humans. The source of stress may be unknown but stress is likely if the dog seems strong when agitated, has a rapid heart rate, or has high blood pressure. Vertigo from idiopathic vestibular disease is common as well because stress disorders like PTSD cause too much cerebral blood flow, promoting inflammation of cranial nerves.
When used consistently over a period of several days to weeks, Halscion supports normal adrenal gland activity and brain circulation. Its components have even put adrenal gland cancer (known as pheochromocytoma) into remission. When adrenal gland function and brain circulation are normal, episodes of anxiety, agitation and insomnia gradually lessen in severity, duration and frequency, with the pet recovering faster afterwards. As the brain returns to normal, the dog relaxed and comfortable in its own skin, reducing the need for drugs.
