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Home&Lifestyle Magazine | Autumn 2017 15
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How to calm your dog
during a thunderstorm
Many dogs are terrified of
thunderstorms. The loud noises,
static electricity, and barometric
pressure changes cause fear, anxiety, and
panic. Dogs can injure themselves and
damage property.
Call your dog inside as the storm begins
to sit by your side and remain calm. During
a storm, give your dog no indications that
something is wrong. Follow the same routine
you would any other night. Even reassuring
the dog can convince it that something is
wrong. Help your dog by being calm and
happy, not by overloading it with sympathy.
Soft singing can help calm some dogs.
Find a small “safe spot” for the dog to
hide. Ideally, this spot will block light and
noise, while allowing the dog to be near you.
Under a table or bed, In a dog crate, with a
blanket over it, In a closet or windowless
bathroom.
Try wrapping a garment around your
dog or let the dog huddle under your arm
on the sofa. Your dog may feel reassured
by the added pressure. If this seems to
help, consider buying a special anti-anxiety
garment, a Thundershirt or Anxiety Wrap.
The garment should be snug around the
dog’s chest, ensuring it is the correct
size, to ensure the acupressure points of
the body are being targeted, and to avoid
injuring your dog.These garments may also
help them stay calm if you need to leave the
house, speak to your vet.
Block the noise. A loud television, music,
washing machine, can help drown out the
thunder. Choose a sound your dog finds
familiar and comforting. Keep your dog away
from windows, or put up heavy curtains.
Seeing the flash of lightning can be an
additional source of anxiety. Block the dog’s
access to exits, as dogs may try to run away.
Play games. Play fetch or with their
favourite toy. An activity that will turn your
dog’s attention away from the storm. To
teach your dog that storms are nothing to
fear, play a recording of a thunderstorm on
very low volume for 5-10 mins once a week.
If the dog shows no signs of agitation, turn
up the volume slightly. It can take a long
time for your dog to adapt, but eventually
your dog may learn not to fear thunder.
If this agitates your dog too much, start
with 5–10 minute daily sessions instead.
Give your dog a treat or a toy when it shows
calm behaviour during a storm, or when it
obeys a command despite its fear. Train it
to respond to a “relax,” “calm,” or “settle”
command.
If these methods are ineffective, ask your
vet about anti-anxiety medications. Quick-
acting medications must be administered
before your dog exhibits any behavioural
changes.
Never give a dog medication without
consulting a veterinarian first.