Does your pet need an emotional support human for thunderstorms? - Happy Pet CBD
DOES YOUR PET NEED AN EMOTIONAL SUPPORT HUMAN FOR THUNDERSTORMS?
HOW TO COMFORT YOUR PET DURING A STORM.
While scientists suspect a combination of barometric pressure changes, static electricity, air pressure, and low-frequency rumbles make thunderstorms unbearable for some dogs, no one knows for sure what causes storm phobia. If thunder sends your dog for the covers, here are some strategies to help them through their thunderstorm phobia.
SOUNDPROOF IDEAS ON CREATING A SAFE SPACE.
Turn the most soundproof room in your home into a safe place for your dog during storm season. This can be a bathroom or even a closet. Bring their bed, toys, and anything else that makes them comfortable into the space to help with their storm anxiety. If they enjoy their crate, bring that in, too. You can even put on some music at a low volume to serve as background noise which will help your anxious dog to relax and block out loud noises.
PLASTIC CRATES VS. WIRE CRATES: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?
PLASTIC CRATES/ KENNELS
More den-like, gives dogs a sense of security
Gives dog privacy in high-activity households
Low visibility for shy or reactive pets
Solid walls offer more protection during travel
Most plastic kennels are airline approved
WIRE CRATES/ KENNELS
Better ventilation than plastic
Easy to cover if privacy or lower visibility is desired
Better visibility for more social pets
Convenient to collapse for transporting and storing
Plastic tray on bottom makes cleanup easy
If you’re not sure which crate to get your dog, ask one of our team members. They can help you find the best one for your dog’s breed and temperament.
WHAT ELSE CAN YOU DO TO CALM YOUR PET?
Natural calming aids are a great way to help your dog. Test them out before a storm, so you’ll know which one works best.
Much like swaddling a newborn, the constant pressure of an anti-anxiety wrap like a thundershirt can help calm your dog’s anxiety.
Another thing you can do is to muffle the sound of thunder with a white noise machine, music, or TV.
Other tried-and-true methods include playing tug of war or distracting your dog with their favorite treat or chew.
DON'T FEED INTO THE FEAR
Over-consoling your pup can reinforce fearful behaviors. Dog owners should act as normally as possible to help with the fearful dog behavior. Rubbing the dog’s ears, playing with them, and even talking to them will help with the fear of thunderstorms.
You can also try to desensitize your dog by playing thunderstorm sounds. Start softly at first, then progressively turn up the volume and use positive reinforcement to encourage brave behavior.
There are, of course, other options to help your dog’s fear, including anti-anxiety medication, diffusers, or even natural and herbal supplements like CBD oil. As pet owners, you know your furry friend the best and what will help your dog cope during storms. So here’s to bettering every dog’s experience with thunderstorms!