| A fear of thunderstorms, or storm phobia as it is also | | | | Alternatively, you may prefer to take a natural |
| known, is relatively common among dogs. In fact, it is | | | | approach and seek a holistic treatment, such as |
| thought that approximately 15-30% of dogs suffer | | | | acupuncture, acupressure, massage and/or herbal |
| from some degree of fear during a storm. | | | | remedies. However, it is wise to seek the advice of |
| Unfortunately, the reasons for this are still unknown, | | | | a vet before treating your dog with any of the |
| but it is believed that both environmental and genetic | | | | above methods. |
| factors are at work. | | | | Desensitization, on the other hand, is a technique |
| In mild instances, dogs may simply whimper and find | | | | similar to that used in cases of human phobias. |
| a cozy hiding place. However, in severe cases, dogs | | | | Essentially, it is a method of gradual exposure. Very |
| have been known to destroy furniture, rip up carpets | | | | low-level storm noises should be played while the dog |
| and smash windows in an attempt to escape the | | | | is experiencing something pleasant, such as a game, |
| perceived danger. | | | | favorite treat or massage. Over time, the volume |
| | | | should be very gradually increased. This is a time |
| Why Does Storm Phobia Affect Some Dogs? | | | | consuming process and will not work in all cases. In |
| As already mentioned, the cause of storm phobia | | | | addition, the dog's fear can be made greater in some |
| among dogs is not entirely clear. Some experts in the | | | | instances. Therefore, if the dog shows any signs of |
| field believe that it is predominantly noise, such as | | | | distress, it is wise to cease the exercise immediately. |
| loud claps of thunder, rain and howling wind, which | | | | |
| results in confusion and anxiety. However, it is also | | | | What to do During a Storm |
| thought that changes in atmospheric pressure during | | | | If your dog suffers from any kind of storm anxiety, |
| storms may be responsible. Typically, dogs' stress | | | | these tips may be helpful. |
| during storms lessens as they become older. It is | | | | - Never try to restrain your dog or shout at him, or |
| believed that this may be due to a gradual loss of | | | | her. Remember, your dog is not misbehaving it is |
| hearing, which certainly suggests that sound is a large | | | | frightened and becoming angry or stressed will only |
| contributor. However, it is perfectly plausible to | | | | make matters worse. |
| suggest that both factors play a role. | | | | - Usually, a dog will have a favorite hiding place during |
| Interestingly, it has been asserted that some breeds | | | | a storm. Make sure that this spot is available to him, |
| of dog are more susceptible to storm phobia than | | | | or her. |
| others are. Research shows that instances of storm | | | | - You may like to place pillows, cushions or blankets |
| anxiety in dogs is higher among the herding, working | | | | in the hiding place, as this reduces the vibrations of |
| and sporting breeds, which points to a genetic | | | | the thunder. |
| predisposition to storm phobia. However, it is also | | | | - Make sure that you close all curtains or drapes, |
| extremely common to encounter rescue dogs that | | | | hopefully this will block out some of the lightening and |
| are frightened of storms. This may be due to a | | | | the sight of rain and trees swaying in the wind. |
| previously disruptive and stressful life. Subsequently, | | | | - Make sure all doors and windows are firmly closed, |
| as mentioned above, both environmental and genetic | | | | so your dog cannot make a run for it. |
| factors are thought to contribute to a dog's anxiety | | | | - Offer your dog as much reassurance as possible. |
| in a storm. | | | | - Make sure that everyone in the house remains calm |
| | | | and quiet. |
| How to Treat Storm Phobia in Dogs | | | | - You may find it helpful to play some soothing |
| Typically, there are two ways to tackle storm phobia: | | | | music, as this can disguise some of the storm noise |
| medication and desensitization. In terms of | | | | and aid in relaxing your dog. |
| medication, the choices will depend on the severity | | | | If you are worried about the severity of your dog's |
| of your dog's condition and the opinion of your | | | | anxiety during storms, it is a good idea to seek the |
| veterinarian. However, he, or she, may prescribe | | | | advice of a veterinarian. |
| anti-depressants or anti-anxiety drugs. | | | | |