Canine Fireworks and Thunderstorms Phobia

Dogs are often afraid of loud and unpredictable noises such as fireworks and thunderstorms. This fear can manifest as panting, pacing, salivating, trembling, urination, defecation, chewing, digging, attempts to hide/escape, running away, or trying to climb on or under the owner. In multi-dog households, there is a risk that the fearful dog may redirect his fear as aggression or become the target of aggression because of his/her fear. Occasionally the fear of storms will begin to manifest during more milder rainy or windy events. The following are things to consider to help reduce fear in your pet.

General Information:

• First and most importantly – it is never helpful to ignore or punish fearful behavior – this will only serve to worsen the problem and make him/her less trusting.
• It is not possible to reward or encourage fearful behavior through offering treats or love. These things can only potentially help reduce the fear/anxiety response.
• When mild or not yet apparent, it can be helpful to do pleasant things with the pet during storms to condition a less fearful response – such as offering chew toys, throwing the ball or doing obedience training.
• If there is an activity your dog loves and can’t get enough of such as fetch or chewing on a toy, please start these during pending storms to get his/her mind off of the storm.
• Create a “safe space” for the pet to hide that is secure and in the most quiet area of the house. This can be a room, closet, basement or bathroom. Consider blackout shades and keep the light on to minimize the effects of lightning. Play competing sounds such as radio or white noise. Create something like a covered crate or space to hide in.
• Consider special privileges such as allowing them in bed with you or under the covers. Also, be sure to project a calm and confident demeanor.
• Although not always effective, there are dogs that respond very well to pheromone devices such as DAP/Adaptil collars or plug in diffusers.
• Consider a thunder shirt to try and provide a warm hugging sensation although pets using this must be monitored to make sure they don’t get tangled or overheated while wearing the shirt.
• Try and be home during the storm as the fear response is worse and can lead to dangerous attempts at escape if you are not present.
• Seperate the dogs if there is any potential for aggression.
• The more different things that are done to lessen the anxiety the better – use a multimodal approach.

Medications:

• Medications are indicated for any dog with moderate to severe storm phobia. Medications must be prescribed by a veterinarian and it is best to be home to monitor the pet while on medications.

Desensitization:

• Although controversial in respect to efficacy – if you are able, we recommend getting a recording of a storm or fireworks to start desensitization training. The goal is to play the recording at low levels and to raise the noise overtime. In addition, once he/she is getting good at desensitization you can consider flashing lights or other things to mimic the storm.
• Start with very short 3-5 minute sessions several times a day to link the recording with treats and happy behavior – fetch, walks, obedience training, etc. If at any time they are showing anxiety – reduce the noise or stop the recording.
• Gradually build up to more realistic sounds as he/she shows she is not afraid. Over time, the hope is that this will change the brain’s response to the stimulus so that it no longer causes fear and so that you have games you can play during the storm.