Help your dog ride out those scary thunderstorms!

There are many ways to calm anxious pups during bad weather.

As the wicked storms battered Muncie, Indiana, on March 14, we had a lot of trembling pups! It’s so sad to see them so afraid!

Does your pet turn into a scaredy-dog during thunderstorms? Not only is the loud noise of thunder scary, dogs can hear it at a much greater distance than humans can.The smell of the air also changes when a storm approaches, and the keen nose of a dog detects this early. The air pressure changes too, and a dog's ears are more sensitive to pressure changes than most people. In some cases, it might even hurt!

Next time a storm rolls through, try these tips!

1. Stay calm. Adopt a neutral, matter-of-fact attitude. Your dog can quickly pick up on any unease or fear on your part.

2. Don't comfort your dog when he acts afraid. Giving him hugs or special attention can actually reinforce his fearful behavior. Speak to him in a happy, playful voice to give him confidence. Never punish him for his fearful behavior. If you can get your dog to play with you during a storm, all the better.

3. Provide your dog with a safe indoor place during storms. It can be his crate, a bathroom or closet — anyplace as long as he feels comfortable there. Many dogs have been lost when they ran from their fenced yards in terror during storms. If you have a designated safe indoor space for your dog, be sure to leave the door open to it so he doesn't feel trapped.

4. Play thunderstorm sounds for your dog. You can easily find thunderstorm sounds on YouTube. Start a “thunderstorm conditioning program" by first playing the sounds on extremely low volume while you go about your day-to-day activities. If your dog acts afraid again, don't attend to the fearful behavior. Redirect him to a pleasant activity, such as playing ball. Gradually increase the volume until your pooch can handle a more realistic sounding storm. This process may take several days to a few weeks.

5. Ask your vet for help. If your dog is extremely agitated during thunderstorms, you may want to consider medication or a natural remedy for pets. Your veterinarian can help with this, if he or she thinks it’s an appropriate solution.

6. Some dogs react well to the calming Thundershirt, a wrap that applies gentle, constant pressure to calm all types of anxiety, fear, and over-excitement issues. You can find them at pet stores or online at http://www.thundershirt.com. 

Above all, be kind and patient with your dog throughout the thunderstorm. By remaining calm and setting a good example, you’ll help him ride out the storm!

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(Some info in this article was taken from the Cesar Dog Food website)