Spring
and summer are times of year that can be
difficult for some pets and their
owners. While most dogs are fine with
thunderstorms, others are downright
traumatized. With symptoms ranging from
barking when they hear a thunderclap, to
severe hysteria, chewing or self-injury,
this can be a serious problem for both
the dog and his owner.
One of the biggest difficulties in
overcoming a thunderstorm phobia is that
you can’t always predict when there will
be one. Sometimes they occur when you’re
home and can work with your pet, but
other times they’re in the middle of the
night or while you’re not home.
The first step is to work on some basic
obedience commands with your dog. This
will help build his confidence in
general while also teaching the meanings
of “no” and “good dog.” In addition,
you’ll be able to use the obedience
commands to teach your dog that even
during thunderstorms he can behave
“normally.”
Next, you’ll need to purchase a
thunderstorm CD or cassette. Ironically,
these are found in the relaxation
section of any place that sells music.
You’ll be using the CD to desensitize
your dog to the sound of the
thunderstorms.
In the beginning, play the CD on
extremely low volume as background noise
while you go about your day-to-day
activities around your home. If your dog
acts afraid, gently tell him “no,” and
redirect to a more appropriate behavior,
such as doing some obedience commands or
playing ball. Gradually increase the
volume until you’re able to work with
your dog during a more realistic
sounding storm.
The most important part of this exercise
is to make sure you don’t accidentally
praise your dog while he’s afraid. If
you pet your dog in an attempt to soothe
him, instead of feeling soothed he will
feel as if you’re saying “good boy,
acting afraid is good.” Instead, use a
gentle “no” and redirect as described
above. You may need to use his leash to
help him.
Another important factor is your own
behavior during real storms. If you act
anxious, your pet will pick up on it and
think he should be anxious too. Refrain
from constantly checking the weather on
television, peering out windows, etc.
Atmospheric pressure may be an
additional trigger. It can help to work
with your dog during regular rain as
well, so he can learn under less severe
circumstances that this is an acceptable
weather condition.
Last but not least, be sure to confine
your dog to a safe area such as a crate
if you won’t be home. This will likely
comfort your pet because he’s in his own
special safe place, plus will keep him
and your belongings safe should he
become upset while you’re out.
By following these steps, your pet is
likely to improve dramatically. These
tips can also be applied to fireworks
phobia as well. Working with an
educated, experienced trainer can help
too. By practicing with your dog in
advance, hopefully both you and your dog
can rest more easily next time there is
a storm!
Article written by Lori Verni
Back
Home
|
