Why Dogs Freak Out During Storms

Why Dogs Freak Out During Storms

AS THE RAIN starts to pound on the windows, you may ind Rover hiding under a low piece of furniture, such as a bed, or in the corner of a dark room. Holistic pet therapist Sally Morgan tells Reader’s Digest it’s not unusual for a dog in the throes of a thunderstorm freak-out to attempt to become grounded – literally and iguratively – by seeking the lowest place in the house or someplace adjacent to the house’s plumbing.

But why? As you might suspect, noise is a reason, but it’s only part of the equation. “hunderstorms can be a trigger for dogs with noise phobia,” says veterinarian Kelly Ryan. “It is an irrational, intense fear of a noise or sound that poses no real threat. If your dog has a noise phobia, you will probably see it with other loud noises, such as ireworks.” Noise phobias can start at any age and worsen over time if left untreated.

Another factor is static electricity. During a thunderstorm, static electricity in the clouds builds up, eventually bursting into lightning. Dogs can sense this static electricity, and often even before the storm reaches our own neighbourhood, says dog breeder Lazhar Ichir. “Specialists now understand that static electricity is felt by dogs through their fur, generating an unpleasant tingling sensation,” he says. It could be helpful to gently lead Rover to the bathroom and into the bathtub as the porcelain may actually help block static electricity. At the same time, try not to give him too much positive reinforcement. Although it’s a natural human response to pat your best friend and tell him it’s going to be OK, he may perceive that you’re telling him his freaking out is something you’d like to see him do again.

sources:

Readers Digest, July 2018

BY LAUREN CAHN 

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