Even the bravest and most outgoing of dogs can be irrationally afraid of, and panic stricken by, thunderstorms. If your dog is afflicted with “thunderphobia” there are several different approaches to help them, but we use the least invasive (and least expensive) method with a great degree of success. The SPCA uses many money-saving techniques in our two animal shelters to entertain, soothe and make the homeless pets feel better. Here’s what the nonprofit tries for dogs that are nervous or scared:
- For nervous and scared dogs, try to dress them in form-fitting pet sweaters that wrap around their bodies to make them feel secure. This technique is known as “Pressure Maintenance.”
- Special devices are offered for sale to address this anxiety issue but to soothe canine anxiety and save money, the SPCA uses donated dog sweaters that are one size too small.
- If you are unsure of spending $39 to $75 for an Anxiety Wrap to help your pooch through a thunderphobia spell, try fitting him with a regular dog sweater that’s one size too small. You’ll save between $15 and $55 dollars and your dog will get precisely the same benefit as he would from one of those boutique-wrap jobs!
- Just be sure to slip the form-fitting sweater on well before the storm begins. You don’t want your dog to associate the sweater with the thing causing all the anxiety!
Information provided by the SPCA of Wake County . For information on how to adopt a pet or to help the nonprofit, call 919-772-2326.
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