Storm Shelter

Dear Fisher,

I need to know if you know why I turn into big sissy when I think it’s going to storm. Last weekend, I was out for a nice walk with my friends and there was a slight hint of rain, but nothing looked threatening to them, so they stopped for a bite to eat at a sidewalk cafe. I started to get all tense and shivering and I just couldn’t help myself. Then the rumbling thunder started and I really got scared. They rushed me home and I headed straight to the bathtub because I felt safe there.

This is uncomfortable for me and it is uncomfortable for everyone else, too. They love me and worry about me. What should I do?

Mandy

Dear Mandy,

It is not all that uncommon for dogs to have fear of storms and thunder. There could be a number of reasons why you have developed a huge reluctance to happily wag your tail when you see lightening and hear loud booms. Sometimes the nerves stand on end when there is extra high energy in the environment. That could be something simple like you and/or your people getting a little fritzed out by the drop in barometric pressure due to an impending storm.

You may become anxious because the people around you are afraid. You might naturally pick up on their energy and join right in. You could, of course, nuzzle them and show them extra loving attention and help them get over it. That goes both ways, though. If they are not afraid and you are, they could hug and cuddle you and tell you everything is ok. That would be quite lovely for the duration of the storm, but might cause you to think it is a great idea every time a few rain drops fall.

Sometimes an experience early in the life will show up as a bad memory. Perhaps you were left outside in a thunder storm and felt abandoned. Or maybe someone took you to a loud fireworks display and you still have bad dreams about the pain in your ears. Be aware, though, that fears can turn into downright phobias. If, for instance, you hear a little roar of thunder and start destroying the door to the bathroom just to take shelter in the tub, you should probably confess to your friendly veterinarian. If your fear of thunder grows into a fear of rain, you have likely developed a phobia and are in need of professional help.

A few tips for your people to help you through a storm:
• Arrange a safe place for you. In your case, they could put a soft blank in the bathtub with your favorite soft toy and a bowl of water near by. Animals who become fearful will head for their own idea of a safe place.

• Play soothing music or turn up the television to help disguise the sounds of the storm.
• Between storms, your people may choose to try a desensitization tactic by playing a recording of thunder or fireworks - very softly and for short periods of time while reassuring you that you are safe and loved.
• Visit Dog Owner’s Guide for more information on desensitization and other tips.

Rainy days can be soothing once you learn to overcome your fears. Try to look forward to a lazy day on the couch watching TV or listening to some nice music. You can do your exercises later when the storm passes and all is calm.

Your friend,

Fisher

published in tbt Tampa Bay Out There weekend edition