I just love storms.
One of the (many) reasons I enjoy living in the Kingsville area, is the frequency of intense storms. (Yes, I have even contemplated a “storm-chasing vacation” – I’ll let you google that later if you have not heard of this.) With Windsor being one of Canada’s stormiest cities, averaging more than 33 days per year with thunderstorms, it is enough to keep us on our toes.
While I love watching a good storm roll in, this enthusiasm is not shared by many of my canine and feline patients. Talking about thunderstorm phobia is something I find myself doing often. Pets who suffer from thunderstorm phobia can show mild symptoms such as whining or pacing when there is an impending storm. But this condition can also present in more severe forms of panic where pets can become destructive or even make herculean attempts to escape the house.
Summertime scares not only include thunderstorms, but fireworks and other loud noises. With this season upon us, it is important that pet owners realize that there are ways that we can help. It is especially crucial to seek help for thunderstorm phobias as soon as you notice them – a mild fear or anxiety can escalate into a phobia or trauma quickly. The sooner we are able to address the concern, the more likely we are to be able to manage it successfully.
Here are a few helpful tips for managing a pet with thunderstorm phobia:
1) Create a safe place or “sanctuary” for your pet during a storm. Not only should this prevent them from escaping from the house (a strong escape urge occurs during panic), from injuring themselves and destroying property, but it should also create a sense of calm. The bathroom is a good choice — for both its noise-muffling properties and lack of chewable surfaces. Consider adding white noise, classical music or their favourite treats to the space.
2) Consider calming supplements, calming pheromones or a thundershirt. There are many non-medication options that can be used alone, in mild cases, or in conjunction with other methods. A multi-modal approach to this is often best and there may be some trial and error required to find which product works best for your pet. There is no “one size fits all” recipe.
3) Modify behaviour with desensitization and counter-conditioning. Consider enlisting the help of a certified behaviourist for this. They can be an invaluable resource to help with some training methods to help your pet manage their fear.
4) Finally, consider anti-anxiety medications.
Ultimately, consult your veterinarian for help with your pets’ anxiety or phobias — whether it be to thunderstorms, loud noises, or anything else. They can help you develop a plan that will work for you and your pet. Not only can it be incredibly upsetting to watch your pet in distress, but having a pet with severe phobias can be life-altering in so many ways.
Further reading:
These Companies Take You On A Real-Life Tornado Chase
Calm skies ahead: Helping pets with thunderstorm phobias
Storm Sangria: A calming cocktail for noise-phobic dogs
ThunderWorks: Creators of Thundershirt
Desensitization and Counterconditioning