7.8.2024
The fear of storms is common in dogs, but rarer in cats. Fear is a normal and useful feeling. When an individual is faced with danger, it allows them to react in a way that ensures their survival and well-being. However, the situation is problematic when the fear becomes exaggerated and turns into a phobia (irrational and persistent fear). Animal fear of storms can remain stable or worsen with each new event. In some cases, the animal will also develop phobias to related noises such as those produced during fireworks, the crackling of a fireplace, the slamming of a cabinet door, etc.
Fear can occur in a variety of ways, but some of the signs that can usually be noted include:
- Restlessness (animal that does not stay in place)
- Destruction of the environment
- Inadequate elimination (urination and/or bowel movements)
- Moans and vocalizations
- Gasps
- Hyperventilation
Treating a phobia is never easy. Despite your best efforts, there is no guarantee that you will be able to eliminate all signs of stress. Success depends, among other things, on the severity of the problem and the amount of time you spend on treatment. In more severe cases, medication is of great help.
Here are a few tips:
1. Change the environment
During a storm, you can place the animal in a better soundproof room (in the basement for example). Be sure to close the curtains to prevent your dog from seeing the lightning, or even better, choose a room with no windows. You can use a fan, TV, or radio to create a source of audible distraction. A neutral noise that your dog is already familiar with can help calm him down.
2. Use the cage
Some dogs feel more secure in a small space like a crate. Ideally, keep the door open, because if the animal feels trapped, stress could increase. You can cover the cage with a thick blanket that will help block out sounds and light.
3. Use the Thunder Shirt
It is a small sweater that exerts slight pressure on the animal's body. The latter provides a feeling of security and comfort in the dog. According to studies carried out by the company, the Thunder Shirt would have a beneficial effect on 80% of individuals.
4. Counter-conditioning method
A negative event, such as a storm, can be associated with a positive event. To do this, you can distract your dog with games or rewards that he enjoys. After a while, the animal may end up combining the two and will perceive the storm less negatively.
5. Desensitization method
This method consists in reducing the animal's anxiety by gradually exposing it to what frightens it. It works in individuals whose trigger is noise (thunder). To do this, you can expose your animal to recordings of wind and storm noise. During the first few sessions, be sure to use very low volumes and, when noises are well tolerated, increase the volume gradually. During the sessions, you can play with your animal and reward it. Each session should last around 15 minutes and should be repeated 2 to 3 times per week prior to storm season.
6. Use soothing pheromones (Adaptil)
Pheromones are chemical substances that are naturally produced by animals. They act as messengers between individuals. Their use in the environment (spray, diffuser or collar) has the effect of soothing some animals.
7. Never punish
If the animal breaks an object or does damage, it is not appropriate to punish it. Indeed, this will only add to his anxiety. Those present during the storm should have a calm and composed attitude.
8. Administer medication
Many patients will benefit from medication prescribed by your veterinarian during storm season. Some medications that need to be taken daily may take up to 1 month to be effective. It is therefore important to start taking medication before the summer season. In other cases, when an event is foreseeable (fireworks or more than a 50% risk of storms), medication may be administered punctually in the preceding hours.
Behavioral problems are often complex and demanding to address. Do not hesitate to contact your veterinary team for additional advice adapted to your animal's situation.
