WebMD. Connections between the amygdala, hippocampus, and hypothalamus facilitate release of stress hormones, like epinephrine and cortisol. Associated stimuli may also come to trigger the symptoms of the phobia or anxiety, such as a change in barometric pressure being associated to a thunderstorm, thus causing an anticipatory anxiety. If your dog’s thunderstorm phobia is severe, and storms occur with some regularity where you live, the chronic effects could lead to a decreased quality of life and potentially problems like immune dysfunction and an increased risk of infection. If you give your dog an extra long bout of hard play before, they may be so tired that they either nap through the storm, or are too worn out to get worked up over it. Calming pheromones like those included in Adaptil diffusers, collars and sprays are another good option. Horwitz D, Landsberg G. Helping Dogs with Severe Phobias During Storms and Fireworks. It’s a common misconception that doing so might accidentally reinforce your dog’s fear, but fear is a visceral response that can’t be altered by a petting or kind words. To reinforce this training, calm behavior should continue to be rewarded as bad weather sets in. But feline ears are more sensitive than both humans and dogs, so why isn’t storm anxiety at least as common in cats? On the other hand, antidepressants not only relieve anxiety but may help the dog focus on the other behavioral modification training during a storm. Sashin D. When Your Dog is Afraid of Storms. But, before we get to that, let’s take a look at the causes and symptoms of dog anxiety so that you can choose the best remedy for your dog. How can I stop this from happening? VCA Hospitals. The dog bites your stuff and destroys furniture, plants and any general household item that is within its reach. According to Jan Hoffman, “Animal behavior experts say cats often seem more self-reliant and understated than dogs, so when they hide under beds during storms, owners may not read that response as unusual.”. Dog Anxiety Storms. According to Mychelle Blake, MSW, CDBC, studies have “found that breed, age, sex and acquisition of the dog can increase the likelihood” of a dog experiencing storm anxiety, explaining, “Female dogs and neutered males are more likely to be thunder phobic, as well was dogs that were rehomed.”. Whether considering prescription or alternative remedies, always consult a veterinarian before employing any treatment, as they can give advice on how best to serve your dog’s individual needs. In some cases, a vet may prescribe a dog with anxiety medication to improve their symptoms. Many dogs instinctually attempt to hide during a storm, so experts suggest creating a “safe place,” located as far from loud noises as possible, away from windows to avoid sudden flashes of lightning, and preferably without carpeting to minimize static electricity. When a dog is safe inside and protected by their human companions, however, this fear may become irrational. What is dog anxiety? Your veterinarian can also recommend a behavioral modification plan to help your dog learn to remain calm when a thunderstorm approaches. In a study that evaluated the efficacy of the Storm Defender Cape (Figure), which reportedly has anti-static properties, 70% of owners reported some degree of improvement in their storm phobic dogs … Looking to learn more about the topics discussed in this article? Sedatives may make the dog sleep through the storm, but do not address the underlying problem of anxiety. Medication can make him more comfortable.” Some alternatives to prescription drugs include natural remedies such as pheromone diffusers, aromatherapy, massage therapy, and melatonin. It can be heartbreaking to watch: Even before the first clap of thunder, otherwise well-behaved dogs begin to pace, pant, cling to their owners, hide … exhibit a variety of responses or behaviors in reaction to a thunderstorm. Storm Music for Dogs! Sun: CLOSED. Symptoms of canine storm anxiety include: Common triggers of these symptoms vary from dog to dog, and may change in individual animals as time goes on and their anxiety grows. Sometimes a single event that has frightened the dog can develop into a persistent and excessive fear known as a phobia. When first introducing a safe place, Dr. Dodman says owners should go with their dogs to reinforce the idea that it is a secure environment. The long-term memory center, the hippocampus, is also involved in propagating the response. Dogs can react to a variety of stimuli associated with storms, including the sound of thunder, dropping barometric pressure, rain, flashes of lightening and electrical charges within the air.
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