A Perfect Storm
Thunder, lightning, high winds, heavy rain, and maybe even hail. Some of us live for a good summer thunderstorm. It showcases nature’s perfection in a way that’s potent and powerful. While a good storm – a perfect summer storm – may allow us to connect with nature in a deeper way, for some, a thunderstorm doesn’t produce passion, it produces anxiety. Anxiety can occur for our pets, too, who may have had frightening experiences before they rescued us, or who are, simply, afraid of storms. Of course, we want to care for them in the kindest way possible.
It’s Innate
Some dogs seem to know when a storm is coming. Dogs can sense a change in barometric pressure. Studies performed by the Center for Canine Behavior Studies indicate that some dogs, especially those with long or double coats, build up static electricity in their coats before a storm, which may cause them to get a mild shock if they touch a metal object. The shock creates an all-out phobia, which they then associate with thunderstorms. The mild discomfort of a shock sensation compounds their already heightened anxiety, making stormy weather even more difficult for some fur babies to endure.
You Just Know
For parents of storm-phobic pets, the signs are pretty obvious. A panicked pet may:
- Pant heavily
- Whine
- Pace
- Become agitated
- Exhibit destructive behaviors
Even if they become destructive, our petrified pets can’t control their terrified reactions, so we must help them manage.
Managing Your Pet’s Storm Anxiety
There are several things you can try before seeking veterinary support for your pet’s anxious behavior during thunderstorms. You might:
- Give your pet a safe place to hide
- Put a heavy blanket over their crate
- Interact with them calmly and quietly
- Play white noise or calming music
- Use a wrap to help ease their anxious behavior
For some pets, though, even the most gentle, loving support from their parents isn’t enough to help them navigate the thunder and lightning that, for them, is, indeed, very, very frightening.
Help for Your Distressed Dear One
If your best efforts haven’t been enough to calm your pet’s storm fears, there are other options available. South Hyland Pet Hospital can help you create a plan and/or routine that can ameliorate your pet’s fears. We may suggest behavioral counseling. For example, although your pet may be fearful and anxious about a storm, you may be able to distract them with something they love – a favorite food or game – so they begin to associate stormy weather with something they love instead of only experiencing fear about it. We can work with you and your pet to figure out what works best for them.
Behavioral counseling may or may not be enough to calm their thunderstorm anxiety. Some pets really need medication to help them manage the experience that scares them so deeply. We can help with that, too.
South Hyland Pet Hospital
Whether your pet needs behavioral training, extra TLC, or medication, South Hyland Pet Hospital in Bloomington, MN, is here to help. We can be reached at 952-884-1868 or by email at southhyland@southhyland.com to help you help your fur baby stay as calm as possible through the storms that scare them.
Image credit: Unsplash
