While warmer days and sunny skies are upon
us, summer storms are often scary for our precious little pups.
Between shivering, extreme panting or
running and hiding, anxiety caused by stormy weather, whether the clashing of
thunder or the flashing of lightning, is common when it comes to our
four-legged family members.
Here are some handy tips to help protect
your precious pooch against those scary, stormy days.
Provide
your dog with a safe space
Find a place in your home where the effects
of the storm are less harsh, noisy or scary. This could be a room or a
particular spot. It should be available to your pooch even when you’re not home
and should serve as a place of comfort and escape. Don’t forget to have the
place stocked with food, water and perhaps a few toys for your fur kid.
Get
a storm jacket or swaddle your dog
Swaddling your pet, just like you would a
baby, gives it a sense of comfort and security during a storm and helps calm it
down. So during a storm try putting a storm jacket on your pooch or, if you
don’t have one, wrapping it in a scarf or light blanket. Just ensure you allow
its paws to be free.
Homeopathic
medication (if necessary)
Humans have calming medication and the same
applies to pets. Try visiting a homeopathic vet who’d be able to prescribe some
natural remedies to help your pup relief some stress.
Desensitise
your pet
Although the real deal can be a whole lot
scarier, the process of desensitisation can really help soothe your pet during
thunderstorms. You can help teach your pet to tolerate the noise by recording a
thunderstorm and playing the sound back until you notice a change in your furry
friend’s reaction or behaviour towards the sound. Also warm your dog up to the
process by starting at a lower volume on the recording and steadily increasing
it as your pet becomes more used to it.
Teach
calm behaviour and use distraction strategies
As the owner it’s your job to help calm
your overly stressed and frightened pet. Some coping mechanisms such as
distracting it with play, giving it a soothing rub or keeping eye contact can
help calm its fears. Reassure your dog that you’re there and that it’s in a
safe space.
Have
a plan
Many of us have a plan about how to cope during
stormy weather or if the electricity is out. Make your dog part of it. Whether
your plan means leaving home, keeping warm or just staying out of the rain, be
sure to consider your dog as well. In severe instances, which might include
floods or having to evacuate your home, make sure you have a safe place for
your dog too. If it means going to a hotel or guest house, check if it’s pet
friendly.
Extra sources: www.pethealth.com.au; www.healthypets.mercola.com; www.accuweather.com
