As pet owners, one of the most challenging times can be during thunderstorms. Many animals, particularly dogs and cats, can become extremely anxious and scared during thunderstorms, which can be distressing for both them and their owners. However, there are several strategies that you can implement to help keep your pet calm during thunderstorms. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for keeping your pet calm during thunderstorms.
1. Create a Safe Space
One of the best ways to help your pet feel safe during a thunderstorm is to create a safe space for them to retreat to. This could be a quiet room in your home where they feel comfortable, such as a bedroom or a bathroom. Make sure to include their favorite bedding, toys, and treats in the room to help them feel relaxed.
2. Provide Distractions
During a thunderstorm, it can be helpful to provide your pet with distractions to take their mind off the loud noises outside. This could include putting on some soothing music or white noise to help mask the sound of thunder, or giving them a special toy or treat to keep them occupied.
3. Stay Calm
It’s important to remain calm and composed during a thunderstorm, as your pet will pick up on your emotions. If you are anxious or stressed, your pet is likely to become more anxious as well. Try to stay relaxed and reassure your pet that everything is okay.
4. Use a ThunderShirt
ThunderShirts are specially designed vests that are designed to help calm anxious pets during thunderstorms. The gentle pressure of the shirt can help to reduce anxiety and stress in pets, making them feel more secure. If your pet is particularly anxious during thunderstorms, a ThunderShirt could be a worthwhile investment.
5. Desensitize Your Pet
If your pet is consistently anxious during thunderstorms, it may be helpful to desensitize them to the sound of thunder. This can be done by gradually exposing them to recordings of thunder at a low volume, slowly increasing the volume over time. This can help your pet become more accustomed to the sound of thunder and less reactive during storms.
6. Seek Professional Help
If your pet’s anxiety during thunderstorms is severe and impacting their quality of life, it may be necessary to seek professional help. Your veterinarian may be able to recommend medications or other treatments to help calm your pet during storms. Additionally, a professional animal behaviorist may be able to work with you and your pet to develop a behavior modification plan to help reduce anxiety.
7. Create a Thunderstorm Survival Kit
Having a thunderstorm survival kit on hand can be helpful in calming your pet during storms. This kit could include items such as a favorite toy, treats, a ThunderShirt, calming supplements, and a blanket to help your pet feel safe and secure.
8. Provide Comfort
During a thunderstorm, your pet may seek comfort from you. Make sure to provide plenty of love and reassurance to your pet during storms, as this can help to alleviate their anxiety. Many pets find comfort in being close to their owners during stressful times.
9. Limit Exposure to the Outside
During a thunderstorm, it’s best to keep your pet indoors and away from windows and doors, where they may be able to see and hear the storm. Limiting their exposure to the outside can help reduce their anxiety and keep them safe.
10. Be Patient
Finally, it’s important to be patient with your pet during thunderstorms. Remember that they may be feeling scared and anxious, and it may take time for them to calm down. Stay calm, provide comfort and reassurance, and be patient with them as they navigate through the storm.
In conclusion, keeping your pet calm during thunderstorms can be a challenging task, but with the right strategies and techniques, you can help alleviate their anxiety and keep them feeling safe and secure. By creating a safe space, providing distractions, staying calm, using a ThunderShirt, desensitizing your pet, seeking professional help if necessary, creating a thunderstorm survival kit, providing comfort, limiting exposure to the outside, and being patient, you can help your pet weather the storm and remain calm and happy.
