How to protect your dog in a thunderstorm
By Don@Smalldog.com
PROVIDE COMFORT: Pay attention to where your dog goes for comfort during a storm then provide a soft place there. Chances are it will be a dark place or a place in the center of the house where the sounds and flashes aren't as noticeable. Many dogs go to a downstairs family room, dark closet, a crate, the bathroom, or the bathtub.
TUNE IN: Invest in a good weather radio so you are always aware of when storms are brewing.
TURN ON: Turn on some soothing music or a TV to mask the noises a bit until the storm is over.
DON'T FENCE ME IN: Don't close her in a crate or confine her to a small space. Even if she prefers her crate or a small space, don't lock her in. She may panic and seriously injure herself if she tries to escape.
CUT THE STATIC: Reduce the static. Rub her coat with a fabric softener dryer sheet to decrease the static - a common result of thunderstorms and one that dogs learn to associate with the storms. If your dog loves to ride in the car, try letting her "ride" out the storm with a ride in the car. This not only helps dissipate the static, but you can actually drive her away from the worst of the storm.
BATTEN DOWN THE HATCHES: Keep windows covered so she can't see out. Keep her away from windows and keep all doors and outside gates closed so your dog cannot escape. Remember that flight is a common response to fear. Prevent her from getting near glass doors or windows if she is panicky. Some dogs will break through in an attempt to escape from the storm.
TRY A SAFETY CUE: If her fear is mild, provide a safety cue such as a special chewie, a great stuffed frozen Kong, or a new squeaky toy that will divert her attention. Provide this at the first sign of a storm and remove it as soon as the storm has passed.
DON'T WORRY - BE HAPPY: Act happy. Be happy. She'll be watching you for clues about how to respond. So keep your own reactions calm and happy. Act as though absolutely nothing unusual is going on. If you are also afraid of storms, you have to hone your acting skills.
