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Jun 29 2023
Home » News » Sounds Of Summer How To Help Your Dog Through Thunderstorms And Fireworks
As summer swings into full gear, it’s a good time to consider the effects of the booming noise from fireworks and thunderstorms on dogs.
Thunderstorms are common in summer. You know the feeling – it’s a warm afternoon, the air changes, and you hear rumbling in the distance. It’s a sure sign that a storm is on its way.
Some dogs don’t seem bothered by storms, while others have great difficulties dealing with them. They may cower, pace, pant, tremble, hide, bark, or even try to escape. They may seek your comfort – or they may prefer to hide away somewhere dark and quiet. If your dog is sensitive to storms, you may notice their anxiety a long time before you hear the storm!
In addition to storms, fireworks are also common in summer, as countries around the world celebrate national holidays. While we enjoy the show, our dogs may not. The noise and light of fireworks sound the same as a thunderstorm to your pup.
Fear of loud noises is natural and common in dogs and arises from their instinct to survive. When a dog faces a threatening situation (strange sound, animal, or person), their fear helps to protect them from harm. Their fear alerts them to potential danger and stimulates a “fight or flight” response to keep them safe, by either approaching the danger or fleeing from it.
The problem arises when dogs develop an excessive fear, which turns into a phobia. Dogs with an extreme fear of thunderstorms react adversely to the noise, as well as the associated lightning, change in barometric pressure, windy conditions, and darkening sky. They may react the same way when exposed to the similar loud noises of fireworks. When noise-phobic dogs get really scared, they act out.
There are steps you can take to deal with thunderstorm and fireworks phobia in your dog.
If your dog’s fear of thunderstorms persists or intensifies, despite your efforts, consult your dog’s veterinary team or a veterinary behaviorist. These experts can provide specialized guidance, develop a tailored behavior modification plan, and, if necessary, recommend anti-anxiety medications to help your dog cope with severe storm-related anxiety.
Don’t let thunderstorms and festivities spoil summer for your dog. With some time, patience, support, and planning, you can help your dog get through the inevitable “booms” that will happen this season!
LifeLearn News
Note: This article, written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written permission of Lifelearn. Please note that the news information presented here is NOT a substitute for a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian.
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