Dog's Help

It is not just humans who are scared of storm. Your pet dog could have similar fears too. If your pet dog panics hours before and after a storm, chances are that he is suffering from storm anxiety. Recent studies reveal that one third of the pet dogs suffer from storm anxiety. So, it is quite possible that your  pet dog deals with the same problem.

Causes
The exact cause of storm anxiety in pet dogs is not yet known. Experts have not been able to figure out which part of thunderstorm triggers storm anxiety in dogs. It could be the wind, the sudden lightning, ionization or even the drop in the atmospheric pressure that may scare your dog.

While all dogs are susceptible to storm anxiety, there are certain breeds who are at a greater risk. These include hound breeds, herding breeds and even working breeds. The reason for the same being that these dog breeds suppress certain undesirable stimuli. Usually, a dog's default response to storms is aggression. When this aggression is suppressed, it takes the form of anxiety.

Rescued dogs are also more prone to storm anxiety. These dogs have had several bad experiences prior adoption, which makes them all the more vulnerable.

Symptoms
Like other anxiety disorders, this one too also comes with it's own set of symptoms. Drooling, panting and trembling are some of the minor symptoms of this problem. However, some dogs may even exhibit more intense symptoms like whining, hiding, destructive behavior and even self injury.

Treatment
If you diagnose any of the above mentioned symptoms of storm anxiety in your pet dog, it is important that you treat your dog with an appropriate solution. Storm anxiety in dogs when left untreated can lead to escalated fears and tensions.

Just in case you suspect your pet dog to be dealing with storm anxiety, a trip to the vet is a must. Your vet may advise certain medications to help your pet deal with the problem. The vet may recommend prophylactic medications that include anti depressants and anti anxiety medications. These medicines prevent the anxiety reaction from occurring.

A sedative may also be prescribed. These type of medicines are used on an as required basis. You can give them to your dog when the storm is approaching to keep him relaxed. There are certain herbal remedies and OTC medications as well that can be of great use in treating the problem.

As a pet owner, it will also help if you keep your dog distracted during a storm. Turn on the blinds or put on TV at a high volume. You could also put your dog in a safe place like a kennel at the time of the storm.