PETA gives owners of sensitive dogs useful tips
Stuttgart. Thunderstorms without fear: Many people know the situation – the sky darkens and at the slightest rumble, your animal companion disappears under the sofa or the basement stairs. In summer, heat thunderstorms cause high levels of stress for anxious dogs and worried owners. But even simple tricks can help them relax. Jana Hoger, PETA's specialist for animal companions, has put together nine helpful tips that people can use to make thunderstorms easier for their dogs.
“If dogs panic during a thunderstorm, the consequences can be fatal. Stressed animals are at high risk of accidents. Fearful dogs must therefore be adequately secured outdoors, ideally with a safety harness and on a leash that is not too long,” recommends Jana Hoger. “If a thunderstorm is approaching, walks should take place well before the first rumble or be postponed until later. At home, doors must be firmly locked so that dogs cannot escape. It is best for two-legged and four-legged friends to train together beforehand so that fearful dogs become confident dogs – even during thunderstorms.”
PETA gives tips
Stay calm: If a storm is approaching, dog owners should remain as calm as possible, as many animals sense tension. On the other hand, people who appear calm show their four-legged friends that everything is OK. It is a good idea to carry out everyday activities, such as doing housework or cooking dinner. Hectic activity and sudden, loud noises should be avoided. If dogs are looking for physical closeness, a calming massage can help them relax.
Don’t listen: A familiar noise level distracts anxious four-legged friends a little from the dreaded rumble of thunder. It is a good idea to pull down the blinds and turn on the radio or television. A relaxed phone call between their owner and a friend can also have a calming effect on dogs. Of course, the four-legged friends should not be completely forgotten or ignored. The best thing for dog owners to do is to sit next to the animal while they are doing their activities and occasionally stroke it casually.
Diversion: Some dogs can be distracted from their fear relatively easily. Playing for a while, cuddling or offering their favorite chew stick can help.
Retreats: Some dogs simply do not want to leave their hiding place during a storm. This should be respected. If there is no suitable place to retreat to, pet owners can build a den for their dogs by hanging blankets over chairs in the corner of the room or setting up a transport box. They should stay within earshot so that the animals are aware of their presence.
Thundershirt: Thundershirts are particularly tight-fitting dog bodysuits that give dogs the feeling of physical closeness without constricting them – similar to a human hug.
Medications: Sedatives should only be used in exceptional cases and after consultation with a veterinarian. Homeopathic remedies (Aconitum, Phosphorus), Bach flowers (Rescue Drops) or Schuessler salts (No. 5, No. 22) can help anxious animals. Since dogs with a fear of thunderstorms can also be more anxious in general, long-term use of these natural healing methods under the supervision of a specialist is recommended. Medicinal herbs or aromas such as valerian, chamomile and pine needles can also have a calming effect on dogs.
Desensitization: There are special thunderstorm CDs to help anxious dogs get used to the threatening noises. Pet owners should initially play these CDs quietly when the weather is nice. Once the animals get used to the sound, the volume can be increased each time.
Conditioned relaxation: Whenever dogs are lying down relaxed, they can be gently massaged while the human says a “magic word” like “Eeeeasy”. Over time, the animals will associate this signal word with relaxation and, in the best case scenario, can be calmed down in stressful situations.
Joint training: It can also be helpful to consult a dog trainer or a dog psychologist. These experts not only have additional tips, but can also analyze exactly where the actual problem lies.