Mary Allen
Farewell Summer! Hello, rain … When there is lightning and thunder outside, for many dogs it is an extremely stressful situation. They whine, hide, and, at worst, panic.
Does your dog tremble and drool when a thunderstorm is announced? Does it pull in its tail, roll up its ears, whine and bark at the first rumble of thunder? Clearly, your dog is afraid of a thunderstorm. In the worst case, this leads to stress and panic – up to and including hyperventilation.
This is How You Deal with Your Frightened Dog During a Thunderstorm
Of course, thunderstorms cannot be prevented – the dog needs to learn how to cope with unpleasant weather conditions. And you can support him.
For example, drowning out a thunderstorm with everyday noise. Here’s how it can help your dog if you leave the radio or television on. The noise of a vacuum cleaner and washing machine can also calm your four-legged friend – if he is not afraid of it.
Even if your dog is playing in the garden, when a thunderstorm is approaching, you better take him inside. By closing windows and closing curtains or shutters, you can reduce noise and leave eerie flashes of lightning outside.
Create Safe Retreats
Also, notice what retreat your dog will take during a thunderstorm: is he just going to the basket? Is he looking for your company or is he hiding under a table or behind a sofa? Wherever your four-legged friend moves away, let him make this decision himself. But you can make sure he feels extra safe there. For example, equip your hideout with blankets or a transport box that also reduces noise.
This is How You Calm Your Dog
The most important thing is to stay calm. Dogs are very good at understanding how people feel. If your four-legged friend notices that you are calmly handling the storm, this alone calms him down a little. Alternatively, you can draw his attention to something enjoyable: hugs, play, treats – but only in moderation – so that your dog no longer concentrates on rumble and lightning.
If distraction doesn’t work, consider exercising. With tricks like thunderstorm CDs or professional dog trainers, you can train your dog for storms. Due to desensitization, the rumble of thunder is no longer special.
Doesn’t that also speak of success? If, despite your attention, your dog still panics as soon as a thunderstorm starts, (herbal) tranquilizers can be used. Plants such as chamomile and valerian also have a calming effect on dogs.
However, this is very important: talk to your veterinarian beforehand about the exact choice and dosage of sedative. Dogs are much more sensitive to certain ingredients than we are and therefore need very little.
Ditto, by the way, if your dog is afraid of fireworks.