by Dr. Rand Davis
Q. My
dog panics every time there is a thunderstorm. What can I do to help him?
This
is a very common question during the summer months. Some dogs will become
extremely stressed, even before the storm appears, due to changes in barometric
pressure and humidity levels. Signs of anxiety may include panting, pacing, finding
places to hide, attention seeking, whining, or even defecating and urinating
inappropriately.
Before
jumping to a sedative, we like to try other options first. For starters, always
monitor your own reactions during a thunderstorm, any human anxiety or fear can
be sensed by your pets and passed onto them. Avoid paying special attention to
your dog, and instead be positive and upbeat while going about your normal
routine. Playing a game with your pet to keep him or her preoccupied may be
beneficial.
A
nice option is a relatively new product on the market called a “Thundershirt” and
has shown great promise in these anxious dogs (and cats too!). This shirt
provides constant pressure to the dog’s torso, and the pressure has a calming
effect – think of swaddling a baby, or providing your dog with a long lasting
“hug”. Seems too simple to work, however our clients and staff have had great
success with this shirt- and it’s drug free!
Another
product available that helps manage stress-related behaviours in dogs is the “Adaptil”
Collar, Adaptil Spray, or the Adaptil Diffuser. It contains canine appeasing
pheromone analogue, or a “happy dog” pheromone that can help to reduce stress. Creating
a space for your pet to go during the storm that is comfortable and quiet,
infused with the Adaptil pheromone will often be enough to take away the
anxiety he or she is experiencing.
If
none of these products are adequate, visit your veterinarian for further
options regarding anti-anxiety medications, or possibly a visit to an animal
behaviourist.
Do
you have a question for the vet? Ask Dr. Rand Davis at the Animal Care Centre
of Strathmore. See their ad on this page.
No comments:
Post a Comment