storm phobic dogs

[turney31]

I have a chihuahua that will start acting funny about an hour before the storm gets here. Sometimes its our 1st warning. I know its the worst thing I can do but I sit and hold him.

 

[greyhorsewoman]

I broke down and purchased one of these for my corgi, who is absolutely terrified of thunder storms. My vendor friend sells them and vouched for their success. I can't say as we haven't had an opportunity to use it yet.

http://www.remmeer.com/thundershirt-dog-stress-anxiety-relief-jacket-p-1814.html

 

[classicsredone]

My Jack Russell used to freak out, but benadryl helped. My vet gave me a dosing chart for otc allergy meds because of his allergies, and said that we could double the benadryl dose if he needed to be sedated for storms or what not.

My mother in law swears by the pheromone things they sell at pet stores, but I have no idea if they actually work.

 

[Godsgrl]

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Poor guy.

From what I've read on it though, it doesn't matter if you coddle them or not, it doesn't seem to affect their stress. So snuggle and love away, at least it will make you feel better.

 

[Godsgrl]

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I just saw the commercial for that today! I like the idea, but it is really pricey. Please let us know if it works for your dog.

 

[Godsgrl]

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What a cutie, I like that smile.

 

[Godsgrl]

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Thank you for your suggestion. I did look up melatonin, and it sounds promising. I might pick some up for next time,

 

[Okie Amazon]

Have any of you ever read Temple Grandin? She talks about using her own home made "pressure box" for treating her own stress (She is autistic and would find herself overwhelmed/sensory overload).

She has used the same concept in treating aggressive and fearful dogs. The squeeze chute for cattle actually works on the same principle. In some instances, whole body pressure does have very beneficial psycological and physiological effects.


I highly recommend that any one who cares about animals or/and eats meat, reading Temple Grandin's work. She is fascinating and has done more single-handedly to alleviate slaughterhouse stress than anyone ever in history.

 

[cackydoodledoo]

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I just saw the commercial for that today! I like the idea, but it is really pricey. Please let us know if it works for your dog.

I think this is an awesome idea but I disagree with it being pricey. $35 is not that much if it helps calm your dog. You will spend much more than that on Benadryl, sedatives or behavior modification. If I had known about this while my golden was still alive I would have bought it in a heartbeat!!!!

 

[greyhorsewoman]

OK, folks, we had to use the 'thunder shirt' several times in the last three days due to back to back NASTY thunderstorms.

The first night, we woke up to a storm because Willow was sitting on our heads (as usual), shaking so hard you'd think her muscles would have to hurt. I got the 'shirt' and wrapped her in it. She did keep panting and shaking, but not 'quite' so hard and she was contented to sit and/or lay by the bedroom door for the duration of the storm (which was quite lengthy). Woke up her snoozing soundly at the bottom of our bed.

Next night, another storm. Came earlier while I was watching TV. Put the coat on her as soon as I (and she) heard the first 'booms.' She was still somewhat panty and shaking, but laid quietly at my feet.

Last night, noticed some lightning when retiring and put the 'shirt' on ... knew there were storms out there, but wasn't sure how close they'd come. Woke up to a HUGE thunder boomer. Looked for Willow. She was laying quietly on the rug beside my bed, not panting, not shaking. She was still alert to the storm, but her anxiety level was SO much better.

So, I give it a 'thumbs up.' It's not a miracle cure, but it definitely reduces the anxiety level, which is a 'win' for me (and Willow).