Dog Talk (previous articles)

Fear of Storms

Thunderstorm phobia is one of the most difficult phobias to deal with in dogs.

There are tapes and CDs on the market that simulate the sound of storms. Play the tapes at full volume to ensure that the sounds cause the anxious response. First, however, teach your dog to relax on a specific mat. Start the tapes at a low level and reward relaxed behavior with a small treat. Slowly increase the volume of the tape, at each step rewarding relaxed behavior. Eventually your dog should be able to tolerate the full volume. Once desensitized, you should periodically expose your dog to the full level of the recording.

Dogs may also respond to other factors that are present during a storm such as wind, changes in barometric pressure, or static electricity. Therefore, this technique may not be effective for these dogs.

It is very important that the owner doesn't talk in soothing tones or touch while the dog is anxious as this will reward the behavior. A matter-of-fact demeanor or trying to get the dog involved in an activity the dogs enjoys is the best tack that an owner can take.

If the dog is still anxious, this is one of the conditions that can be controlled with an anti-anxiety medication. Please consult with your veterinarian or a behavior specialist if the problem continues.

 
Check back for new Dog Talk columns each month!
Here are links to previous articles:

* Some content is from "Your Dog", a newsletter published by the
Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine

 

 

Classes - Map - Registration Form
 Links - About Us

This site designed and hosted by
Plum Creek Associates