Introduction
Storms can be stressful, not just for us, but for our pets too. Thunder, lightning, and strong winds can trigger anxiety and fear in animals, causing them to hide, shake, or even run away. As responsible pet owners, it's important to prepare a safe space for our pets during a storm, ensuring their comfort and security while keeping them calm. In this post, we’ll explore practical tips for both homeowners and commercial property owners on how to create an environment that will ease your pets' stress when the weather turns turbulent.
Why Pets Get Anxious During Storms
Before diving into how to create a safe space, it’s helpful to understand why storms affect pets so profoundly. Animals are more sensitive to environmental changes than humans. They can hear low-frequency rumbles, sense changes in barometric pressure, and even detect static electricity in the air, all of which can make a storm a highly unsettling experience. Dogs, in particular, are known for their storm phobias, but cats, birds, and smaller pets like rabbits can also feel the effects. This heightened sensitivity is why it’s essential to proactively create a comforting space for them during a storm.
1. Choose the Right Location
When creating a safe space for your pet during a storm, the first thing to consider is location. Ideally, you’ll want to find a spot in your home or commercial property that is:
Quiet: Areas that are shielded from the noise of thunder and wind will help reduce your pet’s anxiety.
Enclosed: A small, enclosed space can offer comfort by mimicking a den-like environment, which many animals instinctively seek out when frightened.
Safe from Windows: Avoid rooms with large windows where lightning flashes or heavy rain might further scare your pet.
If you have a basement or an interior room away from the main living spaces, these are ideal locations. For commercial properties, consider creating a quiet area where employees can safely bring their pets, such as a meeting room or unused office space.
2. Add Comfortable Bedding and Familiar Items
Once you've chosen a location, fill the space with comfortable bedding. Use their favorite blanket, pillow, or pet bed to create a sense of familiarity. This will not only provide physical comfort but also emotional security, as pets often find reassurance in objects that smell like home.
Include toys or items that your pet associates with relaxation or play. For example, if your dog loves chewing on a certain toy, place it in their safe space. Cats might appreciate a cozy corner with their favorite scratching post or soft bedding to curl up in.
3. Play Calming Sounds or Music
Music can be a powerful tool for reducing stress, and pets are no exception. Research has shown that soft classical music or even “white noise” machines can help drown out the storm’s noise and create a more soothing atmosphere for your pet.
Streaming services like Spotify even have playlists specifically designed to calm pets during stressful situations. Playing these in their designated safe space can further ease their anxiety. Alternatively, leaving the TV on at a low volume can provide ambient noise that helps mask the sound of thunder.
4. Use Calming Products
There are a variety of calming products available that can be helpful in creating a stress-free environment for your pets during a storm. Consider using:
Thundershirts: These are snug-fitting wraps designed to apply gentle pressure to your pet’s body, which can help reduce anxiety in a similar way that swaddling calms a baby.
Calming Sprays: Products with pheromones or calming scents can create a relaxing environment. They mimic the natural chemicals that animals release when they feel safe and secure.
CBD Oils or Treats: For pets with severe storm anxiety, some owners have found success with CBD-based products that can help promote relaxation.
Always consult with your veterinarian before using any calming supplements or products to ensure they are appropriate for your pet’s specific needs.
5. Secure the Area
Storms can cause pets to act unpredictably, sometimes attempting to escape or hide in dangerous areas. Ensure that your chosen space is safe by:
Blocking off any potential escape routes, such as open doors or windows.
Removing sharp or hazardous objects from the area.
Making sure electrical cords and other potentially harmful items are out of reach.
In commercial settings, make sure any space used for pets is clear of equipment or materials that could pose a danger if a frightened animal knocks them over or tries to hide behind them.
6. Stay Calm and Offer Reassurance
As a pet owner, your own behaviour can greatly impact how your pet responds during a storm. Animals are incredibly perceptive and can pick up on your anxiety. Try to stay as calm as possible, offering gentle reassurance by speaking softly or sitting with your pet in their safe space. Avoid overreacting to the storm yourself, as this can reinforce their fear.
Conclusion
Storms are a natural part of life, but they don’t have to be a source of fear for your pets. By preparing a safe, comfortable environment and taking steps to ease their anxiety, you can help your furry friends weather the storm with less stress. Whether you're a homeowner with a dog that hides under the bed at the first sign of thunder, or a commercial property owner looking to accommodate pets on-site, these tips will help ensure your pets feel secure and comforted during even the most intense weather.
Preparing for Storm Season and How Rebuild Relief Can Help
As storm season approaches, it's not just about creating a safe space for your pets — preparing your property is equally important. Taking proactive steps like inspecting your roof, clearing gutters, and securing windows can significantly reduce the risk of storm damage. Additionally, trimming overhanging branches and securing outdoor furniture are essential tasks to prevent debris from damaging your home or business during high winds.
While creating a safe space for your pets is important, ensuring your home or commercial property is storm-ready is just as crucial. At Rebuild Relief, we specialise in helping property owners recover from hail storm damage quickly and efficiently, offering free roof and solar inspections to assess potential vulnerabilities.
Want to learn more about how to protect your home or business from the next big storm? Read our blog by clicking on the button below.
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