Dogs can be scared of thunderstorms for many reasons, such as loud and unfamiliar noises, flashes of lightning, changes in barometric pressure, and feeling unsafe. To alleviate their fearfulness, it is important to create a safe environment for your dog by providing a secure area, calming music or nature sounds, familiar smells and a companion if possible.
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It’s tempting to try to hold your dog, pet them and make loving sounds during a thunderstorm. However, you want to aim to provide comfort while remaining a leader in the situation. To help comfort your dog during a thunderstorm, you can use familiar scents that they find calming. Try baking bread in the oven, burning scented candles or diffusing lavender or chamomile oil throughout the house. This can help your dog feel more relaxed and safe in potentially frightening situations.
Consider Other Strategies to Help Reduce Your Dog’s Anxiety During Thunderstorms
Here is a list of other strategies to consider:
- Create a safe environment for the dog: If a dog is feeling scared, it’s important to create an atmosphere that will make them feel more comfortable and secure. Make sure there are familiar smells and noises, as well as some company if possible.
- Spend quality time with your pet: Spending time with your pet can be a great way to show them love and affection during a thunderstorm. Playing games together or providing treats can help build positive associations with storms.
- Use calming scents: Baking in the oven, burning candles or diffusing essential oils such as lavender and chamomile can help soothe the nerves of anxious dogs during stormy weather.
- Play music: Playing classical music or using sound therapy recordings specifically designed for dogs can reduce stress in storm situations and provide a sense of calmness.
- Talk calmly to your dog: Speaking softly to your dog while they’re feeling scared can help reassure them that they are safe and not alone during storms
A Personal Experience with Thunderstorm Anxiety
Doppler, the amazing weather dog
It’s difficult to say which part of a thunderstorm upsets a pet. Every pet is responding to their own fear or feeling that comes from different parts of thunderstorms: barometric pressure, wind, lightning, thunder claps. It’s individual what bothers each animal. “We had a dog, Doppler, when my wife was a television meteorologist. He was the worst case of anxiety I’ve ever witnessed. He tore through drywall and doors and only weighed 13 pounds. Strangely, he could sense a storm a couple of hours away and would start to shake. He found the most comfort lying behind the toilet. The water insulated the sounds of thunder a bit for him and over time, he became easier to manage,” said Dr. Carlson.
When to Use Conventional Medications for Thunderstorm Anxiety in Dogs
If these strategies don’t work, you can get started now on some prescription herbal medications that work best over time and there are also casein-based supplements that show effectiveness in reducing the panting, shaking and restlessness. For severe cases of thunderstorm anxiety in dogs, medication may be needed. Common medications used for anxiety include Zylkene and Anxitane, which are natural based supplements. Additionally, benzodiazepines such as Diazepam and Alprazolam can help reduce the effects of fear in dogs. However, medications should only be used under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure they are administered safely.
Unlocking the Potential of CBD to Help Manage Thunderstorm Anxiety in Dogs
A great alternative is CBD oil or CBD + Melatonin. CBD may help to manage thunderstorm anxiety in dogs. Many pet parents have found that providing their dog with CBD oil or an edible product before thunderstorms can reduce fear and anxiety. However, it is important to speak with your veterinarian before using any form of cannabis-based treatment on your pet. Cannabidiol products, even those containing no THC, are not available in every state. “I currently have two dogs who have a mild reaction to severe thunderstorms. A small thunderstorm isn’t really a problem, but when it sounds like God’s shaken the kitchen sink out of heaven these two start to worry,” said Dr. Carlson. “CBD products are my go to for my dogs to prevent their anxiety. Dosing them when the thunderstorms are west about 1.5 hours makes things smoother. They usually just fall asleep or sit quietly without whining, pacing or digging on their beds.” I have my custom CBD by Holistic Apawthecary as my dogs chose the bacon flavor after lining up the options. There is never a problem in taking their “treat” and it is just a simple, effective solution at my house.”
Thunderstorm anxiety can be a debilitating condition for both dogs and their owners. However, it is possible to manage the symptoms with the right combination of medical care, behavioral modifications, and natural remedies such as CBD. Working with a veterinarian is important to ensure that any products you use are safe and effective for your pet’s individual needs.
Cristen Carlson with Dr. Jim Carlson
