Thunder, lightning and rain are like a triple threat for nervous dogs. In fact, some dogs have such anxiety when it comes to storms that they actually run away from home. Because springtime is upon us (and it can be a season for nasty rainstorms) it might be a good idea to formulate a plan for keeping your dog calm during a storm. The seven steps below will work as a guide for this task.
Step 1: Remain at home. If possible, arrange your schedule so that you may ride out the storm with your dog. Your dog’s fear of the storm, coupled with his feeling of isolation during the storm might cause him to run away from home. A dog owner’s absence also carries the risk that the dog might damage something inside the house. If you’re unable to remain at home with the dog, arrange for a friend or neighbor to go sit with him and carry out steps two through seven on your behalf.
Step 2: Remain calm. Dogs are very intuitive animals and your dog will likely mirror your behavior. You need to remain calm during the storm. Be a good role model! If you run around the house in a panicked state, you will not be able to bring much comfort to your dog.
Step 2: Stick close together. You’ll want to keep your dog near your side in order to be a comforting presence to him or her. This also happens to be the safest place for your dog, as you don’t want him near windows during a storm.
Step 3: Talk him through it. Throughout the storm talk to your dog in a calm and soothing voice. Use reassuring words to tell him that he is safe. Show him affection by petting him lovingly.
Step 4: Distract your dog with play. If your dog calms down enough to leave your side, don’t be afraid to play a little indoor fetch with him. This might prove to be a welcome distraction during a particularly long storm. If you still want to keep him close, engage him in a game of tug of war.
Step 5: Distract your dog with treats. Don’t hesitate to give him treats to occupy his mind during this time. If you have a rawhide that will keep him busy for a while, this might be the time to pull it out of the cupboard. Another good treat is one that the dog might have to work at; fill a cone with peanut butter and the storm will be over before the peanut butter is licked clean!
Step 6: Create some noise in the house. In order to keep your dog’s mind off the thunder outside, you might want to turn the radio or television up a little louder than normal. Be prepared with a battery-powered radio in case you lose power during the storm.
While carrying out the above steps, make careful observations about how your dog responds to the steps you’ve taken. Remember that every dog is different and what works for one might not work for another. You might be pleasantly surprised to find that your dog is not affected by the storm, or you might find your 150-pound German shepherd planted firmly in your lap!
Article submitted by pet super store a site carrying wooden dog crates, shock collar and dog bed.