With summertime come thunderstorms that can be a source of anxiety and fear in your dog. Although no one knows exactly why some dogs are afraid of loud noises like thunder, it is speculated that the fear could result from a single unpleasant episode during puppy-hood or a genetic predisposition that includes a heightened sensitivity to noise. Whatever the reason, a dog’s fear behavior is very hard for owners to watch. Not to mention, that some fearful dogs can harm themselves or your property while trying to escape from the source of the noise.

Mild fear responses include panting and pacing or retreating to a safe location and perhaps some shaking or tremors.  An extremely fearful dog may try to dig into your bed or couch to hide or break through a screen door or worse a glass door as they run in fear. In trying to help your pet cope, you should offer a safe-haven in a small room in the house like a bathroom or for small dogs a protected bed or carrier. When there is no stimulus that is causing the dog’s fears, that is, it is a nice calm day, you can practice systemic desensitization by playing recorded storm sounds at low volume while reassuring your pet and offering a treat. You can gradually raise the volume as your pet adjusts and his comfort level increases. 

For more extreme cases, you can get assistance from dog behavior therapists or  your vet may prescribe an anti-anxiety medication (tranquilizers) for dogs such as Valium or Aceprom.  Additional information on these medications is available at Mar Vista Animal Medical Center including precautions, drug interactions, and breed specific responses.

Posted by Barbara.