Does your dog run and hide at the first sign of rain? Does he bury his head, pant, shake and become terrified with the first clap of thunder? It could be that your dog is suffering from Thunderphobia.

Thunderphobia is simply defined as a fear of thunderstorms. Dogs can have a fearful reaction to the lightning, thunder, wind or even simply the rain. Even mild rainstorms can cause anxiety in dogs. Some dogs may pant, pace and stay close to their people, while others have more severe reactions and will run, try to hide, dig, possibly jump over fences or through windows in an attempt to get away from the storm. What causes thunderphobia is still unclear. We still don’t know if it is the sound to thunder, flashes of lightening, the rain pounding on the roof that causes the panic or the drop in air pressure or electrical charge in the air. Some argue that their hearing is so acute the thunder actually causes them pain and discomfort. Either way, there is no escaping mother nature and we need to work with our pets in order to ease their anxiety through frightening storms.

To help our pets we must be able to recognize the signs of thunderphobia. Since dogs have such superior hearing signs of thunderphobia can appear long before the storm is even occurring. Fears can become worse with age and is often contagious. Dogs that were not previously afraid of storms may because fearful as they watch their canine siblings react to a storm. There are several methods used to help a dog lessen their anxiety during a storm.

First, attempts are made to desensitize an animal. This is done by careful reintroduction to the scary storm in an effort to lessen the dog’s anxiety. Recordings of storms should be played at a very low volume for the dogs. The volume may initially need to be set so low that people can barely hear it. As the dog exhibits good behavior, calm behavior reward the dog. Continue to play the tapes gradually increasing the volume when the dog adjusts to each level. Repeat the reward – increase volume process until your pet no longer reacts. This process could take several weeks and should be over a period of time when thunderstorms generally do not occur. Remember to go slow, increasing the volume too quickly and real thunderstorms can cause a relapse.

Another way to help your dog is simply through your own behavior to their anxiety. Do not pet or give your dogs treats while they are in a state of panic, rewards will only reinforce their behavior and rewards will only teach the dog that their behavior is good and that you approve, often worsening the negative behavior. It is best to act as if nothing is happening. Certainly, do not yell or get angry at your dog, this will only create confusion. Strong leadership will help ease your dog’s anxiety in the event of a storm. If your dog sees that you are nervous about the upcoming storm, they too will be nervous – even if your nervousness is simply related to your concern about their reaction. Be calm and firm, simply say, “ Come, Sit, Stay”. After that, ignore the dog during the storm.  Do not appease or console the dog at all!

Another option is to do something during the storm to change your pet’s focus. Try playing a game with your dog, play with his or her favorite toy. You may even want to use one certain toy only during thunderstorm season initially. He or she will then begin to associate thunderstorms with fun and their fear will be replaced with excitement.

Also, dogs love safe places. They may prefer to be in their “safe place” when they are afraid. Make sure your dog has a safe place, often times they will pick their own. They prefer cozy little places such as closets, bathrooms or their crates. However, certainly do not put them in their safe place and then ignore them. You may want to give them a Kong that has been stuffed with low fat peanut butter and frozen to focus on, or one of their favorite toys, or something that smells like you.

While behavior modification training is the preferred method of reducing anxiety, if the retraining doesn’t work, it may be necessary to seek medical help. There are several options available, and all options should be discussed with your veterinarian. Dog appeasing pheromone (DAP), available both in a diffuser and a collar, and Melatonin may help reduce your dog’s anxiety. In addition, there are several drugs that your veterinarian can prescribe but be aware of the pros and cons of each, especially when it involves a senior dog.

Most importantly, remember your dog is scared and he or she looks to you to protect them. Remember, treat your dog kindly and be gentle and note that working through this with them is a bonding experience as well.