Is Your Dog Afraid of Thunderstorms?

07 Jul Is Your Dog Afraid of Thunderstorms?

Does your dog become anxious when storm clouds roll in? It is not uncommon for dogs to have fearful reactions when there is a drop in barometric pressure, an increase in wind, or clap of thunder. If you suspect your dog is scared of thunderstorms, read on to learn more from dog boarding kennels on what you can do to ease your pet’s fear.

Why Is My Pet Scared?

Many dogs become apprehensive during thunderstorms because they don’t know what is going on. Loud booms of thunder and flashes of lightning can make the dog feel as though something is wrong. Your pet becomes anxious because he doesn’t know how to protect you or himself from the new things being seen and heard. Static buildup in a dog’s fur is another likely explanation of anxious behavior. A dog may even receive a mild shock from static electricity if its nose touches a metal object. This mild discomfort could escalate to full-on phobia.

Tips from Dog Boarding Kennels on How to Desensitize Your Dog

Dog boarding kennels agree that you should try different methods for desensitizing your pet before the next storm occurs. First, find ways to make the sounds and sights of thunderstorms less traumatic. You can play the sounds of storms for your pet to hear on a regular basis, which may desensitize them when a real storm does occur. Be sure to only play the sounds when you are present, so that you can ease any anxiety that occurs.

Also, many dogs like to have a safe place to go when they feel anxiety stricken. Provide a small doghouse or kennel inside your home that your dog can go to for comfort. Snug-fitting wraps can also be calming. Or, if you dog’s reactions to thunderstorms are severe, discuss anti-anxiety medication with your veterinarian.

The staff at dog boarding kennels, like those at Woofs & Wags Pet Lodge in Baltimore City, care about the health and safety of your pets. If your dog experiences anxiety when storms roll in, be sure to address it. Anxiety about thunder is difficult to treat, but it is important to try because it can get progressively worse and more pronounced with age.