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rain on hot asphalt crackling chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping chirping This is not the case with our pets: Thunderstorms often scare them to death. We asked the experts why animals are afraid of storms and what you can do to help them.
Dogs are particularly affected
“It’s usually horses, dogs, and cats that are afraid of thunder,” says Lucia Oeschger of Swiss Animal Welfare STS. Fear is particularly evident in dogs. Why this is so cannot be definitively answered yet.
However, their noise-sensitive ears play an important role: While humans can detect frequencies between 20 and 20,000 Hertz, dogs are much more sensitive: they respond in the range between 15 and 50,000 Hertz. “Storms and even fireworks on August 1 can be torture for dogs,” says Oeschger.
Border Collies and German Shepherds are particularly at risk.
In principle, any dog can be affected by the fear of storms. Dog psychologist Katrin Andres (33) says this fear is particularly common in breeds and cross breeds that are more sensitive to stimuli: for example, in border collies or German shepherds. “Anxiety tends to increase with age,” says Andres.
If a dog is afraid, it shows it physically. “For example, with a very tense face, panting, body shaking, or licking your nose.” As panic increases, symptoms such as tremors, vomiting and even fainting may follow.
Thunder is probably the main cause of fear: Loud and oblivious – the animal is startled. “Over time, other elements of the storm will become associated with the negative experience,” says Andres. For example, falling air pressure. Therefore, dogs may show the first signs of stress half an hour before a storm.
Electric shock from pressure drop
Air pressure may play a much larger role than previously thought: As veterinarian Terry Curtis told National Geographic science magazine, it’s possible for pets’ fur to be statically loaded due to varying air pressure. If you later accidentally come into contact with a metal object, it will suddenly discharge – the animal will receive an electric shock and become frightened.
9 tips – how to help your pet
1. window closed
Windows and doors should be closed during the storm to minimize background noise. This also prevents the animal from running out of the apartment in a panic, running in front of a car, or being unable to find its way home.
2. off leash
If you are caught in a storm while out for a walk, you should immediately put your dog on a leash. Otherwise, if he gets scared, he may run away. You should not force yourself to go for a walk during a storm: you will immediately know if your dog wants to go for a walk.
3. Create hiding places
Some frightened dogs bark when threatened, while cats often run away. So make sure your dog and cat have enough safe places to hide – for example, a dark room with no windows or a box for the cat.
4. No hangovers
Enticing, stroking, or playing music or sounds that are pleasant to your pet can help soothe your pet acoustically. For example, special dog or cat music specially composed for pets and available for free on YouTube.
5. Spread calm
If the caregiver is also restless, the dog’s anxiety will increase. It is therefore important to radiate as much calm and serenity as possible. Caution: Do not leave your four-legged friend alone in this condition!
6. Chew against fear
Chewing gum helps many people in stressful situations. The chewing movement of the jaw can remove stress factors. The same goes for animals – not with gum, but with the cat’s favorite treat or a bone for the dog.
7. Play, play, play
When treats don’t help, gaming can be a welcome distraction.
8. Desensitize Rolling Thunder
In the long run, it may make sense to slowly but surely accustom the dog to the storm by playing the sound of thunder rolling in your own four walls. Making an appointment with a dog trainer is often helpful.
9. Relax in the storm
By combining certain scents, massages or music with relaxation training, you can try to make the dog feel as comfortable as possible despite the storm.
Source : Blick
I am Dawid Malan, a news reporter for 24 Instant News. I specialize in celebrity and entertainment news, writing stories that capture the attention of readers from all walks of life. My work has been featured in some of the world’s leading publications and I am passionate about delivering quality content to my readers.
