CHOU2 How-To: How to Calm a Dog During a Storm

Storm season is upon us. No matter where you live, it’s likely you experience a season or more of intense rain, thunder, lightning, wind, and more. These events can bring about many stressors for both dog owners and their best furry friends caused by being surrounded by loud noises and rumbles, bright flashes of lightning, pressure changes, howling wind, and even stress from other dogs barking or crying. It can cause a stress reaction and confusion for dogs.

Our pets are often triggered by even the smallest of sounds, due to how sensitive a dog’s ear can be. That first trickle of rain to the boisterous sounds of thunder can leave your dog in a stress state for hours or even days. Thankfully, there are a number of things you can do to support your dog’s anxiety during these events.

Recognize Your Dog’s Fear

Whether you noticed a change in your dog’s body language, excessive drooling, loud panting, incessant barking, or other fearful behavior, the makings of an anxious dog shouldn’t go unnoticed or ignored. You should never assume your dog will simply “get over it,” as your dog’s health is being negatively impacted during these stressful thunderstorms, or similar events (hello, fireworks!). Not only can the noise and change in weather affect your pup, some are triggered by static electricity or barometric pressure changes. Remember, dogs are extremely sensitive and often notice things we do not. Observe your dog closely during one of these events, and make a list of the behavior changes you notice. Take note of when these changes start to occur – is it before the storm hits? Is it after each clap of lightning during a thunderstorm? Each of these details will help you know how to prepare, and how to support your dog as quickly as possible. Dog anxiety can be as stressful as it is for humans, but remember that dogs lack the ability to communicate with us in the same language. Rely on the cues they give you so you can respond and soothe them appropriately.

Provide a Safe Space

A major key in supporting your dog’s storm anxiety is to provide a safe place for them to try to relax in. Somewhere familiar, like their kennel or a common area with minimal windows, is best – as a major goal is desensitization. To provide additional calming distractions, you can try putting on a white noise machine (just not the rain setting!), classical music, calming music, or even a children’s movie at a low volume. The removal of stressful stimuli is key to reestablishing your dog’s baseline. If they have a favorite toy, treat, bone, or blanket, this is a good time to give it to them as well. Some owners have seen great success with swaddling, a technique often used to soothe infants. A vest or thundershirt can be another layer of support for your pups.

Address Storm Anxiety

Storm Anxiety is not often quelled with one solution. It is usually a combination of approaches that helps pups feel more calm and protected. We like to say you need tools in your toolkit when it comes to being a pet parent. One of the most important options at your disposal is your veterinarian – they know your dog’s health better than anyone, and should be a trusted source whom you regularly visit.

And hey, don’t forget – go easy on yourself. Thunderstorm anxiety is hard for everyone – and it can be discouraging and frightening to see your dog in a stressed state. Solutions can feel hard to come by when you’re looking to avoid anti-anxiety medications, or if you’re uncertain about some of the home remedies mentioned above. Again, there is no singular solution to your dog’s storm anxiety, so try to remain positive about finding the right combination for your pup.

If you’re ready to consider natural dog supplements that offer a calming effect, look no further than Chill by CHOU2 PHARMA / CHOU2 PET WELLNESS. This best-selling, fast-acting calming oil does exactly what its name says, it helps your dog CHILL! With an onset of about 15 minutes, you don’t have to worry about being taken by surprise by a storm that just rolled in (or fireworks that your neighbors somehow got their hands on!). Get your dog to their safe space, give them their Chill drops, pop on a movie, and you can both relax quickly and easily.