The change in atmospheric pressure, more electricity in the air, can cause anxiety within certain dogs.
This is why some dogs will become frantic before you see or hear a storm. The loud noise of thunder and wind is hard on their highly sensitive ears.
Should your dog be sensitive to storms and to help ease its anxiety, be sure you provide your dog with a safe place inside the house. With some dogs, covering them and their heads with a blanket can calm and make them feel safer. It’s normal behavior for some dogs to hide under a bed or coffee table to seek comfort as they would in a den. Turn on the TV or play some soft calming music.
Coddling or baby talk with your dog will only encourage and reinforce these behaviors. Instead, engage your dog and get them to play as a distraction. It is not uncommon for dogs that are left outside to become frenzied and breakout of a fenced yard and bolt. If your dog does breakout, call as many people as you can to help look for it. Contact Veterinary clinics in the area and leave your information with the local Animal Services in case they are alerted to the whereabouts of your dog.
Try not to enclose a claustrophobic, panicking dog in a confined space, as this will only elevate these behaviors. Be sure to tell those looking, that when they spot your dog, to not chase or approach it ‘square-on’. This body posturing will encourage the dog to run. Instead drop one shoulder slightly and slowly approach at a 45-degree angle to the dog. Squat down and open your arms wide encouraging the dog to come. This body posturing is much more inviting for the dog.
Speak to your vet if you have concerns with your dog, as there are natural remedies such as Rescue RemedyⓇ Pet, which is a Bach Flower essence. A few drops in the dog’s mouth or in its water will help calm and relax your dog.
This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.