How to Keep Your Pets Safe & Calm During…
Thunderstorm season is officially here. Unfortunately, when thunderstorms roll in, many pets, just like us, experience anxiety and stress. As a pet parent, it can be unnerving to see your otherwise calm pet become anxious and frantic. So how can you keep your pets safe and calm during a thunderstorm?
Why do storms stress pets out?
Why do thunderstorms cause so many pets to become unhinged? There are several reasons why pets fear storms. The loud noises are a big reason pets get stressed during thunderstorms. Pets have better hearing than us. In fact, a dog’s sense of hearing is more than ten times more sensitive than a human’s! Besides loud noises, thunderstorms also have bright flashes of light that occur unpredictably. Pets are also more sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure and even electromagnetic disturbances than humans. During a thunderstorm, static electricity builds in the clouds and eventually releases in the form of lightning. Dogs can sense static electricity and feel it in their fur which generates an unpleasant tingling sensation causing dogs to act agitated. Barometric pressure changes that accompany storms cause changes in the air pressure in our pet’s nasal and sinus cavities. Lastly our pets are keyed into our emotions so if you are stressed or nervous about the storm, your dog will sense it and get stressed too.
What are the signs that your pet is stressed out?
Pets who suffer from storm anxiety may exhibit difference behaviors. You may see them tremble or shake, pace, pant, or hide under table or bed. Sadly, many pets will also try to run away, and many pets escape and get lost during thunderstorms. Make sure all pets have a microchip and that your contact information is up to date.
What can you to do help keep your pet calm during the storms?
The best thing you can do is keep your pet safely inside. Create a safe secure space for your pet. Ideally in an interior room with no windows or exterior doors. Put their favorite bedding in there and turn on the radio or TV to drown out the noise. Given them a new toy or treat to keep them busy and distracted. Take advantage of one of the many calming products on the market. Studies have found that pheromones help reduce anxiety and stress in dogs and cats. Pheromones are available in sprays, plug-in diffusers, collars, and spot on applications to help keep your pet calm. Finally, speak with your veterinarian about sedatives if your pet is extremely anxious and nothing seems to help.
After storms what do we need to know or do?
After the storm, wait at least 30 minutes after the storm has passed before letting your pet out. Check to make sure there is no debris, downed power lines, or other things that could be harmful to you or your pets.
Thunderstorms can be scary. Thankfully there are things you can do to prevent or minimize your pet’s storm anxiety.Follow these tips to help keep your pet safe and calm during a storm.