The air becomes heavy and humid. The sky suddenly begins to darken. As soon as you hear the first thunderclap, you will realize that not only is the soccer game canceled in the afternoon, but that your dog is freaking out. Why is this happening? We found it out, the reasons may surprise you.
Is it wrong to love your dog too much and loyally? Your dog is not only your best friend or friend, it is a full member of your family who senses the approach of bad weather even before it all happens. By the time you see the first drop of rain on the window or on the ground, your four-legged friend will already be lying and whining very pitifully under the sofa.
When the rain starts hitting the windows, you may find that your dog is trying to hide under the couch, bed, or sitting in the bathroom. During a thunderstorm, these animals behave rather strangely: they try to hide in the most literal sense, they are looking for the lowest and most secluded place in the house.
But why is this happening?
You might suspect noise is the root cause, but that's just part of the question. A thunderstorm can be a trigger for dogs with a fear of rumble, noise. It is an irrational and intense fear of noise or sound that poses no real threat. If your animal has this phobia, you will probably see how afraid it is of other loud noises, such as fireworks. This fear can start at any age and worsen over time if left untreated. Scientists suspect that the phobia may arise from an innate instinct for self-preservation and survival of the dog, that is, it must be sensitive to what is happening in its immediate vicinity. Loud sounds not only interfere with this, but also confuse her. There are other factors that can make your dog anxious.
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Static electricity
During a thunderstorm, static electricity builds up in clouds, resulting in lightning. Dogs can sense this static electricity even inside our homes and often even before the storm reaches our own area. Scientists have determined that dogs feel static electricity through their fur, and they have an unpleasant tingling sensation. This is the reason why many pets feel anxious and look for a secluded place that they hope can insulate them from static charges.
Barometric pressure change
Dogs that are afraid of thunderstorms can often feel a drop in barometric pressure. And this phenomenon, as many know, accompanies storms.
Change of ions
During a thunderstorm, the ions in the atmosphere change. Dogs can sense this as external signals travel through their nervous system more quickly. These signals include the sounds of rain and thunder, as well as flashing lights - this explains why the dog goes looking for a secluded place.
Change in our behavior
Dogs are sensitive to their owners' reactions to their environment. If we run around the house to close the windows, complain about something bad, etc., the dog feels that something is wrong, he understands that he should be on his guard.
Genetics
Some dogs have a certain natural predisposition to fear of storms and bad weather (according to a study published in the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association in July 2001). This study showed that different dog breeds have different levels of anxiety during a thunderstorm. Those that turned out to be the most disturbing were working and sporting breeds (German Shepherds and Collies), created by nature itself to care for other animals. But, as it turned out, they themselves are afraid of harsh weather.
How to relieve your dog's anxiety during a thunderstorm
In addition to keeping our own anxiety under control, it would be helpful to gently bring your dog to the bathroom. This is the only place in which she will be comfortable during a thunderstorm. If your bathroom has porcelain tiles, this is great, as porcelain can actually block static electricity. At the same time, try not to show the dog that you support his anxiety. While it is a natural human reaction to love your best friend and try to tell him that everything will be okay, he may understand these words differently. He may perceive that you are telling him that his excitement is what you like, because during this time you stroke him and gently address him, trying to calm him down.
Another place your dog may find safe during harsh weather is in a dark and quiet room with soothing music. If your dog has been trained to sleep in a crate, you can ask him to go to his seat and he will be safe there.
You can also consider clothing options for dogs to somehow shield the coat from statistical energy. Pet stores have a large selection of different jackets, overalls, raincoats that will save your animal if you suddenly find yourself outside in bad weather. All garments are made of durable and washable fabric that shrinks just like spandex suits for humans. This is quite a convenient and comfortable protection for your four-legged pet.
When it comes to the home, it's worth closing the blinds or curtains and turning on the lights to minimize lightning flashes. For some dogs, especially older dogs, it is best to give anxiety medication. But keep in mind that these medications are only available from veterinarians with a prescription, which you must get from your veterinarian after discussing any treatment options that work best for your dog. Try to use only natural supplements. Pheromone foods can be a great option for some animals.
Many veterinarians are inclined to believe that essential oils can also provide some help. The same goes for herbal collars. These essential oils can help relieve your anxiety if your dog's anxious behavior somehow spreads to you.
Just remember that your dog doesn't want to be afraid of a thunderstorm, and you need to understand that this fear is not a good sign.
Victoria Ivashura