Many dogs are terrified of thunderstorms. Loud noises, static electricity, and changes in barometric pressure cause fear, anxiety and panic. In this state, they can harm themselves and damage property. Learn to manage your dog's fear in this situation and improve his reaction to the next storm.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Calm the Dog
Step 1. Call him as soon as the storm starts
Don't wait for bad weather to peak to find your pet; call him near you as soon as you hear the first thunder.
Step 2. Stay calm
Your furry friend senses anxiety; if you are nervous, the dog understands it and the situation can only get worse. During a thunderstorm, do not send any signals that would make the animal think that things are bad. Follow the same routine every night. Smile and speak in a calm, reassuring tone.
- Too much reassurance can also convince the animal that there is a problem. Help him stay calm without filling him with pampering and attention.
- Gentle humming can calm some individuals.
Step 3. Find a quiet place
Find a "safe den" for the dog to hide in. In theory, this shelter should prevent light and noise from entering, but it must allow the animal to hear its owner close by. Here are some solutions:
- Under the table or bed;
- The carrier on which you put a blanket;
- A closet or bathroom without windows.
Step 4. Swaddle the dog
Try to wrap a piece of clothing around his body or allow him to curl up under your arm on the sofa. Many dogs feel reassured by pressure, just like babies feel safe when swaddled. If this seems to work, consider buying a specific anti-anxiety product, such as a compression harness or a stretchy dog t-shirt. These "clothes" should be wrapped tightly around the animal's chest, but make sure you buy one of the correct size to get good results; in this way, you activate all the pressure points on the body and prevent the animal from being hurt.
- Other similar products press acupressure zones that are associated with the release of stress.
- If the weather is very hot and you are concerned that these clothes will overheat your furry friend, choose a model that can be wet with water. The air passing through the moist fabric acts as a coolant. Always check the pet if you are concerned about its safety and health.
- Some of these clothes are suitable for keeping your dog quiet when you need to leave the house. Read the instructions on the package regarding safety warnings.
Step 5. Block out the noise
Loud TV volume, loud music, and other sources of noise (such as the washing machine) can be even louder than thunder. Choose a sound that is familiar to the dog and that comforts him.
It may be helpful to cover their ears
Step 6. Avoid keeping your dog outside or near windows
If possible, keep him away from windows or put heavy curtains. The sight of lightning can be a source of other anxiety. Prevent them from accessing exits, as some frightened specimens may try to escape or injure guests.
Step 7. Play with the dog
Encourage him to participate in activities around the house. You can have him play fetch or put on some music and dance with him. Find an activity that takes your attention away from the storm.
Step 8. Consider home remedies
Among these are herbal and homeopathic solutions against anxiety. Always use specific products for dogs. Some essential oils for human use can cause discomfort or health problems for animals; also, they need less concentrated doses.
- Consult a veterinarian before using these products, the oils are very concentrated, can severely irritate the dog's skin and even damage the furniture.
- Lavender is a common solution that appears to be effective with these animals as well, when used in the right dosages.
- Alternatively, you should pat the dog with a dryer sheet softener that reduces static electricity.
Step 9. Ask your vet about medications
If these methods do not lead to the desired results, discuss anxiolytic medications with your doctor. The dog can take some of these active ingredients, such as amitriptyline, during the season when thunderstorms are frequent. There are also fast-acting medicines, such as acepromazine or diazepam that should only be taken when there is a thunderstorm.
- For drugs to be effective, they must be administered before the animal exhibits behavioral changes.
- Never give him medication without first asking your vet for advice.
Part 2 of 2: Preventing the Fear of the Dog
Step 1. Desensitize the dog
To teach him that thunderstorms are not phenomena to be feared, play the sound of a storm at a very low volume for several hours, once a week. If your dog shows no signs of agitation, turn up the volume slightly every week. It takes a long time for the animal to get used to it, but it will eventually learn not to be afraid of thunder.
If this training gets him too excited, start with daily 5-10 minute sessions
Step 2. Promote quiet behavior
Offer your dog a treat or toy when he is calm or obeying a command despite fear. Teach him to respond to the commands "quiet", "quiet" or "quiet".
Training at home with a leash proves to be very effective. For example, use the house as if it were an indoor obstacle course and lead the animal by asking it to perform certain commands. If at any time you feel this remedy is causing more stress, stop and try to calm the dog down
Step 3. Anticipate his fear
To block stress and anxiety, involve the animal in some activity before the storm sets in. Organize something to do around the house and check that the animal's "shelter" is ready.
Advice
- Do not punish a dog who exhibits fear or anxiety during a thunderstorm. This is not bad behavior, but a real phobia.
- Be patient and kind. The dog may need time to improve.
- If you know a thunderstorm is coming, let the dog out to meet his physiological needs. Once bad weather has started, the animal is unlikely to want to go out to the "bathroom".
