Fear Of Thunder In Dogs
And The Thunder Rolls:
Helping Your Dog Stay Calm During Thunderstorms
Summer brings not only sunny days but also thunder, lightning, and fireworks, which can be frightening for dogs. Whether you have a puppy or an adult dog, these events can send them running for cover or shaking under the table. Fortunately, there are strategies to help your dog stay calm.
Tips for Puppies
When a puppy experiences their first storm or fireworks, it can be highly stressful. Your reaction is crucial. Here’s how to handle it:
Stay Calm: Don’t make a big deal out of it. Ignore the storm and go about your usual activities. If you're outside when it starts, calmly head back indoors without any dramatic reactions to the noise, wind, or rain.
Avoid Over-Petting: While it’s natural to want to comfort your puppy, avoid petting them excessively during these events. Simply placing your hand on their back can be comforting, but stroking or petting reinforces their fear.
Neutral Voice: Keep your voice calm but neutral. Avoid soothing tones, as they can make your puppy associate your empathy with a reward for being stressed.
Distraction: Offer a fun distraction, such as playing a game or working on simple obedience skills that earn them special treats reserved for thunder/fireworks training. Keep them engaged in enjoyable activities to shift their focus from fear.
Tips for Adult Dogs
Dealing with an adult dog with existing fear issues can be more challenging, but here are some effective strategies:
Introduce a Wrap: Products like the ThunderShirt™ can be highly effective. However, it’s important to introduce the wrap well before a storm. Let your dog smell it, touch it, and even sleep with it in their crate for a day or two. Then, gradually increase the time they wear it, starting when they are calm and using treats as positive reinforcement. Monitor its effectiveness during the first few storms.
Music Therapy: Use music as a rehabilitation tool. CDs and downloads specifically targeted at desensitizing dogs to thunder and fireworks can be helpful. Start playing this music at a low volume when your dog is calm and gradually increase the volume over time.
Holistic Remedies: Consider holistic remedies such as essential oils, chamomile tea, Rescue Remedy, and calming collars. Essential oils can create a sense of calm, but it’s important to imprint the scent long before a storm arrives. Always check with your vet for appropriate dosages and potential interactions with any medications your dog is taking.
Consult a Vet: If other methods aren’t effective, consult your veterinarian about prescription medications for anxiety.
Additional Safety Considerations
For dogs that are easily spooked by loud noises, ensure they are safe:
Leash Up: Keep your dog on a leash if you must go outside during a storm.
Secure Collar: Make sure their collar is secure and can’t be easily slipped out of or broken.
Prevent Escapes: Ensure your dog cannot bolt through open doors, gates, or windows, and that they cannot scale your fence.
Microchip: Make sure your dog is microchipped and that your mobile phone number is on their ID tag.
Share Your Experience
Have you had success with wraps or other methods? Still struggling with your dog’s fear of storms? Share your experiences and read my blog on suggested supplements and essential oils for more tips. Don’t forget to check out my video on this subject for additional guidance.
By following these steps, you can help your dog remain calm and safe during summer storms and fireworks.