We’ve been in the throes of some unusual weather for the UK – an extended heat wave that’s making our green and pleasant land parched and brown. Some of us have been longing for some rainfall to ease water supplies and bring that long-missed green back to our lawns. For many parts of the UK there is rain forecast for this weekend but it may come in the form of summer thunderstorms. Unfortunately many dog owners dread thunderstorm activity as much as they dread fireworks. This is for the simple reason that some dogs are absolutely terrified. Dogs may retreat to a safe area, bark incessantly, howl, shake, or urinate. If you find you are in that position with your dog, we’ve got some tips to help you and your dog through the worst of the thunder and lightning.
Tips for coping with thunderstorms if you are at home
- There is a higher incidence of runaway dogs during thunderstorms. Try to keep your dog inside during that time.
- Close all windows and doors in your home so that noise levels from outside are reduced. You can also draw blinds or close curtains for extra noise reduction too.
- Try to distract your dog with other sounds, such as the TV or by playing music.
- Make sure that your dog has easy, unobstructed access to his safe area. This may be the crate or dog bed, so allow your dog to take himself there and allow him to stay there during the thunderstorm if that is where he feels most comfortable.
- Keep calm yourself and do not appear to look hassled. Dogs often pick up on how their owner is feeling and if you are calm your dog is likely to feel calmer too.
- Your vet may be able to suggest a dog appeasing pheromone (DAP) or calming scent that you can use to reduce your dog’s anxiety.
Tips for coping with thunderstorms if you are outside
If you are out walking your dog when the thunderstorm hits, there are precautions you can take.
- Check the weather forecast before venturing out on a long walk or one far from home.
- Keep your dog on a lead, so he or she doesn’t bolt if feeling scared of the weather conditions.
- Be lightening safe by getting indoors or to a shelter as soon as possible. If there is no shelter available stay as low as you can by finding a ditch. Stay away from tall trees, poles and even fences.
- Do not use an umbrella or even a mobile phone during such weather conditions.
- As soon as you hear the first rumbles of thunder, get to a safe place as quickly as possible.
- Take cover in your car with the windows closed.
- Install a Travall Liner in the boot of your car and Travall Mats in the footwells, so even if you and your dog are both soaked to the skin, your car stays clean and dry for the drive home.
- Be aware of flash floods if the ground is parched and there is a torrential downpour. Don’t try to drive through such floods.
Do you have tips that have worked well with your dog? We’d love to hear them!
Information given in this article is not a substitute for advice from a qualified medical professional. Please consult a vet for advice specific to your dog.
