Thunderstorm Phobia

Reply to klqstjohn

I had two dogs who became terrified of thunderstorms when they got older, about the last year or two before passing away.  My white english pit bull became so afraid she literally tore my back door apart twice to get inside the house.  The vet prescribed Xanax, but it needed to be given about a half hour before the storm, which was not always possible if I was not home.  It did help her quiet a bit though.  I also would leave the TV or radio on loud enough to drown out some of the sound.  Later, I read that it is the static electricity in the air that affects the dogs fur.  The loud sound of thunder just makes it worse and confirms the dogs eery feeling something scary is out there.  I have tried spraying static guard on the carpet and putting static dryer sheets in their bedding and think it helps.  Also, I have researched and found static control garments that you strap on like a doggie vest that are supposed to negate the positive ions created by static in the air due to lightning.  Sounds like a winner, but I haven't tried it.  Good luck with your dog.

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