Many dog owners experience different reactions to storms by their four-legged family members. Dogs may have mild signs such as hiding, shaking, and panting while others will vocalize and may become destructive. Diagnosing the fear is rather simple: the dog’s behavior changes prior to or during a storm. Treatment unfortunately is not as straightforward and may require a combination of behavioral and medical techniques to bring relief to your pet.

Safe space:

Creating an area that is seen by your dog as a safe-zone will help provide comfort, especially if no one is at home. Dogs that are crate trained can use the crate as their ‘cave’. Dogs that are not crate trained may use a bathroom or closet - a small room without windows will help provide a barrier from both the lightning and thunder. A television or radio providing background sound will further help decrease the sound of the thunder.

Non-Prescription Products:

The Dog Appeasing Pheromone Collars, D.A.P., can help by decreasing stress by releasing pheromones that mimic those found in mother dogs. The product also comes as a spray. More information is available on the Ceva website at http://www.dap-pheromone.com/

Rescue Remedy is a flower-based mixture that helps decrease stress and is available as a liquid which can be given directly or mixed into food or a treat. Information about this product can be found on their website at http://www.rescueremedy.com/pets/

Harmonease is made of a natural blend of extracts and helps decrease anxiety. It can be combined with behavior modification to control more severe anxiety disorders. It is available as a chewable tablet. Information about this product is available at http://www.harmoneasevet.com/index.htm

The Thundershirt is a new product that is showing a lot of promise with anxiety control. Its gentle yet constant pressure helps provide comfort and the results are seen almost immediately. Information about this product can be found at their website at http://www.thundershirt.com/

Prescription Medications:

There are short-term and long-term anti anxiety drugs that may be given to pets with more severe symptoms. These medications require bloodwork to ensure your dog is not suffering from a medical condition that may be causing or aggravating their signs and to make sure your dog is healthy enough to take these medications. Your veterinarian will help you determine which medication will be most beneficial given duration and severity of anxiety signs.

Questions? Send us an email to askthevet@rascalunit.com