Tips for keeping dogs calm during storms

Recently, our region has been hit hard by large amounts of rainfall and storms including occurrences of grey skies, harsh winds, and fallen trees.  While it is an inconvenience to be without electricity for a period of time, or to have to take an alternative route due to flash flooding, it can be much more traumatic to our four legged friends.

Many dogs are frightened or upset during storms.  The bright illumination of the lighting and loud claps of thunder can bother them to different degrees.  Some pet’s hide under furniture, others chew on things, and some get so distressed they get to the point of hurting themselves.  While there may not be any simple solutions or one thing that works for every dog, here are a few options to try to help calm your dog during the next storm.

TOP 8 tips:

1) Stay calm yourself; your dog feeds off your energy.

2) Distract your dog by playing a game.

3) Speak in a calm soothing tone, don’t yell as this will just increase his/her anxiety.

4) Offer a safe place: best might be a dark, quiet place, such as a covered dog crate, a dark bathroom with a pillow in the bathtub or blanket in the floor of a closet.

5) Try to play a relaxation CD; these sounds can cover up the sounds of the storm.

6) Try using an ACE bandage as a wrap or a Thundershirt ®.

7) Use a spray called Rescue Remedy; it is a combination of five of the original Bach Flower Remedies and has shown a calming effect in humans & pets.

8) Take your dog to a room with a lot of noise: laundry, dishwasher, exhaust fans; they can buffer the sounds of the storm.

As storms seem to have no end in sight, try these to sooth your dog during the next storm.  Consult with a trainer and/or a veterinarian for help with specific situations for your dog(s).