Even before hearing the first rumble, you can tell just by looking at the dog that a thunderstorm is being brewed.
Many dogs are very scared, even in small storms. An upset cat scared of a storm can damage your home or even run outside. Thunderbolt is rare, but lightning strikes are possible, but usually fatal if a pet is hit.
And what about when you’re walking your dog and get caught up in a sudden thunderstorm?
Here are some things you need to know about how to keep your pet safe in a storm.
Key takeout
- Microchips and storage indoors is an important safety measure, as storms can cause pets to panic or escape.
- A calm and safe space like a wooden dog rim and cat shelter will help reduce anxiety associated with the storm.
- Do not let your pet take shelter near pipes or on concrete floors.
- If you are caught outside during a storm, look for an enclosed shelter and avoid tall or metal structures.
How to prepare for a thunderstorm with your pet
Thunderstorms become more active in most parts of the United States during the spring and summer seasons. So, no matter what the weather forecast says, we recommend getting ready for a big storm.
Keep these tips in mind when keeping your pet safe in a storm.
Microchip your pet
All pets must wear some form of identification for safety. Microchip for Dogs or cats are a safe, metal-free way to protect your pet. It’s a nearly single grain rice-sized chip that your vet injects into your pet. This microchip makes it easy to identify your pet if he gets lost.
Veterinary offices and shelters have small machines for scanning microchips. Once a pet is found and scanned, the microchip will provide information stored in your microchip account, including health concerns, medications needed, and contact information.
Unfortunately, many dogs and cats escape during the storm. Shelters often report a surge in pet reports that are missing in the days after a severe storm.
Microchips are an easy way to ensure that this happens or not, allowing you to reunite with your pet.
I’ll take my pets early
Your pets will be safe inside even if they don’t want to cooperate. Dogs should never be left outside unattended, but if you let your puppies come out more frequently during the summer, try to bring them in before the storm rolls.
If your dog becomes anxious due to the storm, they will get lost by wandering around or escaping and searching for safer territory.
Remove metal collars, chains, or harnesses
Metals can transmit electricity, which can exacerbate the effects of lightning strikes. This is why you need to remove collars and harnesses from pets that contain metal.
Also, when your pet gets nervous during a storm and tries to hide behind furniture or squeeze it into tight corners, these wearable metals can hurt your pet, damage your furniture, or catch and restrain your pet.
Create a safe haven
Creating a safe space for your pets is a great strategy to comfort them in the event of a storm.
Many dogs with anxiety like A Dog frame It is covered with blanket It is equipped comfortably Dog Crate Pad. This is similar to a safe and cozy nest. Give your dog what they enjoyKong Handle toys and other chewing toys.
If possible, avoid stress yourself. Your pet feels you’re stressed and interpret this to mean that the danger is nearby.
If you’re relaxed, your pet may be calm too. After all, if you made the situation as safe as possible, what do you need to overcome the stress?
Consider using calming aids
There are many products that can be used to calm and relax your pet in the event of a storm. You may need to experiment to figure out what works for your pet.
Some animals work at all for animals, while others do not work at all. Ask your veterinarian to recommend it to help you identify the best one for your pet.
Cats may respond Pheromone diffuser and sprayLikeFerriwayAnd many dogs Thunder shirt.
Try many products until you find a product or combination of products that work for your pet. Veterinarians can also provide guidance on products that work for specific pets.
How to keep your pet safe in the event of a storm
Thunderstorms are an inevitable feature of summer, but there are steps to keep your pets safe before or during a storm.
If you get caught in a storm with your dog
If you’re caught outside with your dog during a storm, try finding a solid, enclosed structure, such as a place, vehicle, or shed, where you can wait for the storm.
If you are unable to get inside, avoid climbing up to high areas, away from trees and tall structures, and reduce the risk of lightning.
If you find yourself on the field, try to keep it as low as possible until the storm passes. Do not lie flat on the ground. Avoid metal fence posts and vehicle underneath structures that may provide electricity.
Looking for shelter in the house
If you’re inside when the storm starts, look for an interior room without exterior windows or doors. Not only can they be blown in strong winds, but many of them contain metal.
Piping can also provide electricity, so don’t allow water to be washed to hide your pet in the bathtub. Concrete floors also may allow lightning strikes, so keep your pets away from concrete floors. Interior bedrooms are the safest places to survive the storm.
When it’s okay to go back outside
Normally, if you don’t thunder and don’t see lightning for at least 30 minutes, you’re safe to go back outside again. Keep in mind that even in the distance, you can still be at risk if you can hear the lightning.
The lightning bolts could be about 10 miles away from the storm clouds. If you are in doubt, wait.
Thunderstorms can be scary for both people and pets. However, it is important to remember that the chances of being hit by lightning are very small, and there are many steps you can take to minimize your risk.
Taking your pet indoors and staying as calm as possible can go a long way in weathering the storm.
Plan ahead, talk to your veterinarian and have the supplies you need on hand. Then sit down and see the beauty of nature at work, knowing that you have taken all the right steps to keep your family safe.
Pet FAQ Thunderstorm and Thunder Safety
Can a dog be hit by lightning?
Yes, that’s rare, but dogs can get hit by lightning, and these are usually fatal events.
How can I calm my pet in the event of a storm?
To calm yourself may set the tone your pet should follow. Additional soothing supplements, products, or medications may also help to give your dog a sense of soothing.
Keeping other sounds in the background may also help provide distraction along with activities like treating puzzle toys to keep your pet occupying.
