How to keep your pet safe during a Thunderstorm? Thunderstorm are a part of weather changes which are inevitable. But we can safeguard what lies in our hands and it is our pet’s safety. No doubt pets would be safe indoors when thunderstorms strike, but more than safety it is necessary to keep pets calm during thunderstorms. General observation says, that pets and thunderstorms don’t mix. There is no ideal solution to the same but some practices might help you and your pet in the long run.
How to keep your pet safe during a Thunderstorm? Exercise- Let your pets exercise a lot so they get exhausted and are least bothered to stress out in thunderstorms. Interaction- Human interaction is good for scared pets. But cuddling frightened pets assuages their fear, it will teach them that their fears are justified. Warm surroundings- Giving them a safe, cozy, insulated place to stay will lower their anxiety levels. It will keep them safe and make them feel better too. Secure collars- Pets should be worn safe collars with current ID tags in case they escape in panic during a storm. Toys and more of toys- Give them treats and fun stuff to do if you are going out of home. Buy lots of new toys for them as a means of distraction. Music therapy- If the storm is loud and noisy and the pet can’t handle the force, try some music therapy directly in the ears of the pet.
How to keep your pet safe during a Thunderstorm? Clothing- Swaddling pet clothes do help a lot. Try a Thunder Shirt or a cozy wrap to make them feel extra secured. Reward calm behavior- Take a preemptive approach of showering your pet with affection to make them realize the correct way to behave. Safe space- If your pet owns a safe space where they usually go and hide during storms, ensure to make that place cozy by putting blankets, their favorite toys and water. Even when the storm rests, never coax them to come out, let them have their own space and time to cope with the after effects. Reassure your pet- Techniques you can use include giving your dog a firm hug around his or her chest and showing them your dog you a calm by smiling, blinking your eyes as if you are falling asleep and softly whispering to them. Be at home- During storms when your pet feels unsafe the maximum, trying to be at home with them is an assurance that you are there.
How to keep your pet safe during a Thunderstorm? Distract and desensitize- The same can be done by playing TV or radio at high volumes, this helps in desensitizing them by teaching to tolerate loud noises. Simulation can be done with noise of fire crackers or sounds of extreme bad weather at slow volumes first and then gradually at ear wrecking levels so, that your pet gets oblivious to louder sounds. Veterinary behaviorist- As a last resort consult a veterinary behaviorist or medications to help treat your pet’s phobia with calming drugs, only if you have exhausted with all other techniques.