Storm season is fast approaching. This will bring welcome rain for us but for dogs with thunderstorm phobia it means anxiety and stress. Thunder phobic dogs respond to the thunder, lightning, rain and changes in barometric pressure caused by storms with an exaggerated fear response. They may pant, whimper, tremble, hide and experience incontinence and destructive behaviours. Thunderstorm phobia is very distressing for your dog and you. Some ways you can alleviate the stress or prevent it from ever occuring is by trying to not react to a storm yourself. Often as a storm is approaching we race to get the washing in, close the windows etc etc, causing a buzz. This heightened activity gains the dogs attention. If possible try to remain calm and at a relaxed pace. Dont attempt to comfort your dog during a storm as this confirms to them that there is indeed something happening thats worth worrying about. Desensitising affected animals with sounds of storms on a CD played at a low level that does not trigger a response and gradually increased until tolerated at a loud volume, often can aid in settling the phobia. Some dogs may require medication to decrease the anxiety or to sedate if your pet is at risk of trauma.
Posted on: Tue, 22 Oct 2013 05:35:06 +0000
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