Thunderstorms and fireworks can be daunting to a dog.  Here are some great tips to help your dog cope through these difficult periods by Jupiter, Florida Dog Trainer, Carol Harris who is an ABCDT Certified Dog Trainer and an AKC Certified CGC Evaluator.

Fear of thunderstorms, fireworks and other loud noises is common in puppies and dogs. Because we can’t control these outside events, it is important to do as much as we can to control our dog’s indoor environment during the frightening events.

Prepare by having things ready to decrease his stress level. Products are available to relieve stress and fear. These include calming collars, sprays and atomizers containing DAP (dog appeasing pheromones); snug wraps such as the Thundershirt; hemp oil, also called CBD oil; anti-stress tablets, chewies; and various holistic anti-stress compounds These products are helpful to many dogs and are worth trying. Your vet may prescribe medication for severe stress and anxiety.

Play music or TV to cover the scary sounds. If you can, stay at home and speak to your dog in a comforting voice to reassure him. Stress is contagious, so be calm.

When the storm (or fireworks) starts, immediately give very special treats to your dog every time you hear the thunder/fireworks. Timing is critical – put the treat at the dog’s mouth the instant the noise starts. This is counter-conditioning the dog to believe that thunder and fireworks bring treats! The noise becomes less scary, more rewarding. The dog becomes less frightened and less stressed.

Sometimes you may not be able to catch your dog for treats before he runs to his favorite safe hiding place. Some frightened dogs go under a bed or chair, others go to their crate, or any place that seems safe. If your dog has a special “safe place” in your home, where he seeks shelter, allow him to go there.Forcing your dog to come out will increase his stress and fear. Instead, take his favorite toy, or a stuffed Kong type toy, or a bully stick to his shelter. He may be too stressed to enjoy it during the storm or fireworks but can have it when he feels better. If your dog doesn’t have a safe place, you can try creating one by covering his crate with a blanket to block lightening, fireworks, and thunder, and placing the crate in a dark, quiet spot that your dog likes. An alternative is to put your dog’s bed or mat in a dark quiet place, with his water, a favorite toy. Check on him often to comfort and reassure him.

For further inquiries, Carol Harris can be reached at

561-254-8988

www.carolharrisdogtraining.com

carol@carolharrisdogtraining.com

Dog suffers from thunderstorm and fireworks anxiety