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WE are in the middle of Queensland stormy season and it may be appropriate to consider your dog’s reaction to thunder and lighting and what you can do.
So how does your dog cope with Storms? What can you do to help?
Firstly, hands off. The more you pat, praise or cuddle a fearful dog, the stronger the fear becomes.
It’s very hard watching your dog quivering in fear, but do not pat, coo or cuddle a fear-reactive dog.
Start preparing for the season now. Start programming your dog that loud noises, strong winds, big bangs and strobe lighting is game time.
Training your dog to associate storms with good things like games, toys and fun activities can help lessen the fear.
Some things you could do are adapted games you can play indoors - hide ‘n’ seek, finding you, toys, food or any item, complex tricks – get beer from the fridge, or there are some great activity games available designed specifically to test the dog’s brain.
If the storm lasts a long time, plan enough activities to distract your dog, although sometimes that’s not easy.
When you do run out of activities, allow your dog to sit beside you, but don’t pat or reassure. Your own demeanor should be calm and confident.
Turning the television up loud and the lights off may accustom your dog to spasmodic lighting flashes.
Try to keep him off your lap but being close on bed or couch is usually okay.
Preventative methods include exposing your dog or puppy to loud noises regularly.
Your attitude should be ‘this is a game’– if you look at your dog expecting a negative or fearful reaction, that’s probably what you’ll get.
Your dog takes his cue from you, if you turn a loud bang into an occasion to play, your dog will respond with a fun attitude.
Dogs outside must be safe, in an inescapable area. Once adrenaline kicks in, dogs can perform super dog acts, scaling fences and bolting.
Separate the fearful dog from other dogs, fear is contagious and spreads quickly. Before you know it, you may have two or more storm-phobic, panic-stricken dogs.
It can be difficult and time consuming to eradicate storm phobias, but if you are vigilant you can help your dog.
If your dog is a chronic case, speak with your veterinarian for advice or a canine behaviorist can help - ensure the person is qualified.
