Opinions on Thundershirts For Dogs
The Benefits of a Thundershirt for Dogs
As dog owners, we all want our furry companions to feel safe and secure, especially during times of stress or anxiety. That's where a Thundershirt for dogs comes in. It's a simple and effective tool that can be used to calm and soothe your dog during stressful situations such as thunderstorms, fireworks, or separation anxiety.
A Compression shirt may offer some dogs temporary relief, but we believe in helping your dog find the root cause and working to eliminate the need for such tools.
We also want to share some risks that you may not have considered.
How Does a Compression Shirt Work?
A Thundershirt is essentially a snug-fitting garment that wraps around your dog's torso. The pressure of the shirt creates a calming effect on the nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety and stress.
This pressure technique has been used for many years in the form of weighted blankets for humans. It also mimics the sensation of being swaddled, which is comforting for many animals. The Thundershirt works by providing gentle and constant pressure on the dog's body, which has a calming effect on the nervous system.
When to Use a Compression Shirt
A Thundershirt can be used for a wide range of situations that may cause stress or anxiety for your dog. Here are some examples:
Thunderstorms
Visits to the vet
Grooming appointments
Loud noises
While a Thundershirt is not a cure-all solution for anxiety issues, it can be a helpful tool for many dogs. It's a non-invasive way to help calm your dog during stressful situations.
How to Introduce Your Dog to the Compression Shirt
Introducing your dog to a Thundershirt requires a bit of patience and training. Here's how to get started:
Have your dog sniff the Thundershirt to get used to the scent and texture.
Hold the Thundershirt up to your dog's chest and secure it around their body.
Reward your dog with high-value treats or praise to reinforce positive behavior.
Gradually increase the time your dog wears the Thundershirt, starting with just a few minutes and building up over time.
It's important to note that not all dogs will take to a Thundershirt right away. Some may need some time to get used to the sensation, while others may not be comfortable wearing it at all. Always monitor your dog closely when first introducing the Thundershirt to ensure they are not showing any signs of discomfort or distress.
Use Essential Oils With A Compression Shirt
You can continue to diffuse your essential oils or even consider applying essential oils to your dog, or directly to the fabric of the compression shirt. See calming oils for ideas.
Risks Associated with A Compression Shirt
Supervise when wearing! In my opinion, this is not a tool to put on your dog an leave them unattended. Think of it a bit like a straightjacket you can’t get out of. If they become increasingly stressed, this could become a hazard for them.
Some potential risks associated with using a compression shirt for dogs include:
Overheating: If your dog is wearing the Thundershirt for an extended period of time, it may cause them to overheat, especially in warm weather. It's important to monitor your dog's body temperature and remove the Thundershirt if they show signs of overheating.
Incorrect fit: A Thundershirt that is too tight can restrict your dog's movement and cause discomfort or injury. On the other hand, a Thundershirt that is too loose will not provide the desired calming effect. Be sure to follow sizing instructions carefully and adjust the Thundershirt as needed.
They may feel too confined, especially after an extended period of time. They may attempt to get it off in ways that are potentially harmful or put them at risk of ingestion hazard or even more stress associated with the shirt itself.
While a compression shirt can be a valuable tool for managing anxiety in dogs, it's not the only solution. Here are some additional ways you can help your dog feel calm and secure:
Essential Oils, Herbs, Homeopathy
Nutrition
Consistency and routine
Exercise
Desensitization Protocols
Mental stimulation
Safe spaces and comfort items
Positive reinforcement training
You know me. My goal is resolution and having your dog learn to cope with scenarios confidently without needing to rush home to put on some device. I’m all about using natural wellness options to relieve stress and tap into emotional roots. If a compression shirt helps them feel snug, use it, but recognize it’s a management tool, not a resolution. Get to the root of these issues! Otherwise, you may rely on a tool like this for years, and it may one day quit being effective.
Search this website for other considerations for anxiety and stress. Give me a call to discuss how we can help your dog put their anxiety behind them.
What About Weighted Blankets For Dogs?