Storm Anxiety in Dogs

How to Help Your Pet Cope with Thunderstorms and Storm Anxiety

Summer’s hot, humid weather often brings thunderstorms – and for many pets, that means fear, stress, and anxiety. Even the calmest of animals can be transformed into nervous wrecks by the sound of thunder or the flash of lightning.

Storm phobia in pets is more common than you might think. The combination of thunder, lightning, wind, sudden pressure changes, and static electricity can trigger significant stress. Dogs and cats may start to pace, pant, cling to their owners, hide behind furniture, claw at doors and walls, chew destructively, whine, or bark.

Signs Your Pet Has Storm Anxiety

If your pet reacts differently during storms, they could be experiencing storm-related anxiety. Look out for the following behaviours:

• Pacing and restlessness
• Excessive panting or drooling
• Clinginess or following you around
• Hiding under furniture or in corners
• Whining, barking, or howling
• Destructive behaviour such as chewing or scratching at doors

How to Help Your Pet Stay Calm During Storms

There are several simple ways to reduce your pet’s storm anxiety and help them feel safer:

1. Create Positive Associations

Replace fear with something enjoyable. Try playing a game of fetch, using puzzle toys, or offering their favourite food. Not all pets will eat when nervous, but offering a treat they love can provide a welcome distraction.

2. Reward Calm Behaviour

When a storm hits, encourage your pet to lie down or sit calmly next to you. Reward calmness with gentle praise or a small treat. Avoid touching or fussing over them when they’re visibly anxious – this can unintentionally reinforce the fearful behaviour.

3. Provide a Safe Hiding Spot

Most pets will naturally look for a place to hide during a storm. Allow them access to a quiet, secure space where they feel safe – under the bed, in an open crate, or in a corner. You can even create a cosy ‘den’ with blankets. Once they’ve found their spot, let them settle undisturbed.

Make sure all doors and windows are securely closed – frightened animals may try to escape outdoors if they feel threatened.

4. Try Desensitisation Training

Desensitisation can help reduce your pet’s sensitivity to storm sounds over time. Play recordings of thunder at a low volume while giving treats or engaging in play. Gradually increase the volume over several weeks to help them become more accustomed to the noise in a controlled way.

Consistency is Key

Each pet is unique, and it may take time to find what works best for yours. The key is to stay consistent and calm, helping your pet to build positive associations and feel secure during unsettling weather.

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