For the good of our furry friends: Thundershirt

[erinlough]

There was a thread on this in GD but it turned into a fight about fireworks so I thought I would give pet lovers my story. My rescue Bichon mix has been terrified this summer by the many storms that have plagued the mid-west. She would shake, pee, climb on my shoulders and head. In short she was miserable. In desperation I bought a Thundershirt from a local pet store. Problem Solved. She sleeps through the storms and seems very comfortable in it. Just thought I'd let you know.

[WillParkinson]

1. Wish I had heard of this when Heidi was still with us...

She was terrified of thunder and 4th of July fireworks.

I'm glad you found something that will work for you and give your Bichon some peace.

[Coyote_Bandit]

2. I used to have a dog like that

I worked with my vet and over a period of about a year or so was largely able to desensitize him to storms.

I got a CD that had soft music behind thunderstorm sounds. Initially the dog got some mild tranquilizers. We started with just a brief exposure - with lots of treats and petting and positive reinforcement. Then we extended the exposure period and eliminated the tranquilizers. Then I got a CD that had just thunderstorm sounds.

It took some time and effort but I was glad I did it. He was no longer terrified of storms and was comfortable having his safe place to go (under a table between 2 chairs in front of a wall). If I were away from home or at work I didn't have to worry about whether he was pawing his way through the drywall or dying from fright. Or rush to get home and drug him or comfort him.

[livetohike]

3. Thanks for the positive story on the Thundershirt

I wonder if it works for other scary situations. My ACD hates going to the vet :-(. If that would work, I would buy one immediately.

[phylny]

4. I use Rescue Remedy for pets for our dog Jack.

He is terrified of storms, and five drops on a small piece of bread allows him to chill and ride out the storm without anxiety.

http://www.bachflower.com/Pets.htm

[erinlough]

5. update

The shirt is still working but for minor storms I don't have to use it anymore! It has also calmed her when we are going to be away for longer than an hour or so. It is a product that has worked for her and I am so glad she is more comfortable. Here she is during an especially noisy storm....



sorry the pic is fuzzy I took it with my phone.