Most of us know the stress of a quivering puppy when there
are loud, scary noises going off outside. Fireworks and thunderstorms are just
a few (annoying for us, but terrifying for our dogs), noises that cause
distress. Dogs and thunderstorms are just not a great mix.
Did you know that a dog’s sense of hearing is about four
times as sensitive as our own? Ouch! No wonder thunderstorms are so anxiety-inducing.
Rest assured, we have gathered five of our best tips for keeping your pups
feeling safe and happy—especially with hurricane season ramping up.
Let’s start with the given. It would be best if you tried
to be home with your nervous pup. It’s ruff being scared and all alone! And
after all, it’s relatively impossible helping an anxious dog from afar. Here
are some additional tips to help calm your dog’s anxiety during thunderstorms:
1. Keep calm and carry
on
With that being said, it’s not enough to simply be there.
Pets feed off our energy, and if you’re feeling nervous or anxious, your furry
friend is going to feel it too! So work to stay calm and keep going about
normal tasks to distract from the outdoor commotion.
2. Establish a safe spot
Most dogs have a crate or pet bed as a home. It is important
to make this spot really feel like home! This means try to avoid using the
crate as a means for punishment and simply make it the norm... much like our
bed is for us!
A safe storm spot doesn’t have to be a bed though. Maybe
it’s on the couch curled up near you or in mom or dads’ arms for pets. Try to
make the environment as relaxed as possible!
3. White noise is your best friend
Yes, just like people, distraction is key! Try playing some
calming music like lo-fi beats or classical tunes. A tv show or white noise
machine may also be a great option if you find you can steer your dog’s
attention away from the thunderstorm fairly quickly. We know you’d probably try
anything to help calm your dog’s thunderstorm anxiety.
4. Thundershirts
Many of our customers ask, do Thundershirts work? The
reality is, their success not a guarantee but certainly something to consider. A
Thundershirt is a vest made from compression fabric to help comfort your
fearful doggo. Much like a baby swaddle or reassuring hug, the Thundershirt can
significantly decrease stress for many pets and could help with thunderstorm
anxiety for your dog.
5. Condition
desensitization
This sounds complicated, but actually, it’s pretty straight
forward! The idea is to play sounds of thunder, fireworks, and other stimuli at
a low volume while offering positive reinforcements. Over time, the sound is
increased, and praise and reward are still given to condition positive
associations and behavior surrounding these noises.
These are our top tips to encourage your dog to stay calm
during difficult conditions. It is important to remember that all dogs are
different and will react differently to certain tactics. Despite concerning
behavior, it is also worth noting that some breeds are predisposed to storm
phobias and may require professional advice.
As always, we recommend running any concerns or questions by
your veterinarian. After all, they know best how to help, especially with more
severe cases of pet anxiety.