I have had numerous clients report to me that recent thunderstorms are upset dogs and cats. I looks like we might finally get a break in the rain and storms, but then July 4 and fireworks will come along.
I normally recommend a ladder of approaches. The lowest rung in calming phermones like Adaptil for dogs or Feliway for cats. I have had some good results with Thundershirts, and white noise machines.
For the more serious affected dogs, I recommended medications. I normally start with Trazadone, but can escalate to Sileo if severe.
And I always recommend letting the pet feel safe, where ever that is, without inadvertently “rewarding” the attention seeking with lots of attention.
For a long term approach when it isn’t thunderstorm season, I recommend a gentle approach of playing a CD or digital file of thunderstorms, first very softly, then gradually increasing the volume, while the pet is distracted with pleasurable stimuli (food, treats, toys) to help desensitize to the noise. When the real deal comes along, there is much more than noise, but it can help decrease the severity of the pets reaction, or postpone the anxiety.
For more info:
https://www.fearfreehappyhomes.com/kit/fear-of-thunder-fireworks/?utm_source=ActiveCampaign&utm_medium=email&utm_content=What+s+New+In+June&utm_campaign=20210601_Newsletter_FFP#blog_link1