As we approach storm season, it is important to ensure our four-legged friends are as comfortable as possible.
During storms, dogs that are usually very placid and quiet can become either incredibly anxious or maniacal, and VERY vocal.
From running up and down a fence line barking at the sky, to cowering under a bed whimpering in fear, dogs can exhibit strange behaviours that conflict with their usual temperament.
There is also an increase in dogs at animal shelters due to them running away from their home in a fit of terror, confusion and panic.
A combination of emotions are at work when your dog is hyperactive or hypoactive - apprehension, impatience, fear, insecurity, or even near loss of control. No matter what the reaction, the adrenaline is pumping, and concentration is scattered.
Providing a safe environment for your dog during a storm can be incredibly beneficial, such as placing a crate in a safe place like a bathroom with music to supplement the scary sounds. The way you react during a storm can also help change your dog’s conditioning. Remaining calm, providing firm hugs and gentle massages, can help soothe your dog, and provide a different association with the loud thunderclaps.
Retraining your dog to react differently in stressful situations, such as playing in the light rain together before the storm hits and sound desensitisation practice, (playing storm sounds during clear weather and slowly increasing the sound), can also help change your dog’s behaviour during storms.
All these techniques can help your dog but is a great deal simpler if accompanied by nervous system tonics that helps to relax your canine, so they are able to respond better to training.
Animal Botanical™ Relax formulation is designed to nourish and restore the nervous system of a dog that is stressed and nervous. This formulation offers support for many owners and trainers and has been regularly given to client’s dogs for over 20 years.
The formulation is all-natural, containing some of the most reliable and traditionally used herbs for reducing physical nervous tension and anxiety such as Passionflower, Skullcap, Valerian and Vervain.
Nourishing your dog’s nervous system with traditionally used nervine herbs promotes adaptability and resilience under stress, allowing you to ride out the storm together in a much calmer way.
