Hi, ElementalAlchemy! I thoroughly agree - the inability to sleep is maddening!
You are describing a chronic sleep problem that, situation permitting, should be investigated. Here at PsychCentral there is a
Sleep Issues & Dream Interpretation Forum where you may be able to collect coping strategies from other insomnia sufferers.
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My dog

mastered the "fetch" command. He would communicate he wanted something, and I would fetch it.