June 8 2018
Fear of
thunderstorms and lightning is very common in dogs.
Those big booms can be very
scary. Many dogs can sense a storm coming from the rapidly falling barometric
pressure. Therefore, your dog may show anxiety even before the storm can be
heard.
Does your otherwise obedient dog begin to pace, pant, cling to you, or
hide under the bed at the first sight of an approaching storm? In more severe
cases, Bark Busters has even trained dogs that will break through a window out
of fear.
- Stay
calm
.
Dogs can sense fear or discomfort from people, so it is important you
remain calm during storms. Let your dog stay close and try and distract
him by playing.
- Don't
scold or reward
. Do
not try to comfort him in a sympathetic voice; this will sound like praise
and may increase his nervousness and confusion.
- Keep
it closed
.
Keep your windows and curtains closed to reduce noise and bright flashes.
Turn on a TV or radio at a normal volume to distract your dog from loud
noises and help him to relax.
- A
safe den
.
Provide your dog with a safe place to be during storms whether inside or
out. Create a special den-like area in your home where your dog always
feels safe and secure. If a storm is brewing, lead your dog to his special
place to help him feel calm and protected. If you cannot bring your dog
inside, cover his doghouse with a blanket to offer some protection from
the bursts of thunder and lightning. Be sure your dog can come and go
freely, since some animals become more anxious if penned up.
- Medication. Consult with your
veterinarian because there are many calming medications on the market that
help dogs to cope with their fears and anxieties. Also, like swaddling a
baby, there are snug-fitting shirts and wraps especially designed to calm
anxious dogs.
- Reconditioning. Dogs that continue to
panic when a storm approaches may have to be reconditioned by creating an
artificial storm with environmental recordings. This is something you
should not attempt yourself, call your local Bark Busters trainer.
Some dogs with storm phobias are also frightened of other loud noises,
such as fireworks or gunshots, but others are only afraid of storms. Bark
Busters will help you get to the 'why' of your dog's behaviour and help you to manage
issues or phobias.