10 min podcast: helping pets cope with stormy weather

Keeping Your animal family Calm: Helping Pets Through Stormy Weather

With the wind rattling the windows and the rain coming down in sheets, it’s not just us humans who feel a bit on edge. As a vet, I often hear from worried pet owners during Ireland’s stormy spells, asking how they can help their furry friends cope with the “howls and whines” of the weather.

For more on how to help, listen to the podcast or read on…

Stormy weather doesn’t just bring noise; it brings changes in air pressure that many animals are far more sensitive to than we are. This can lead to extreme anxiety, spooking even the most relaxed dogs.

Expert Tips for a Stress-Free Storm

Based on our recent chat on the podcast, here are the core ways you can support your pet when the weather turns:

• Create a “Den”: Find a sheltered, quiet spot—like a cupboard under the stairs or a utility room—where your pet can feel safe.

• Use Your Scent: Place some of your old, worn clothing in their den; your familiar scent acts as a natural “calmative” for them.

• Routine for Small Dogs: While medium-coated breeds like Labradors or Collies handle the wet well, little dogs like Chihuahuas or miniature Dachshunds feel the cold and wet much more acutely. For them, rain gear can be a real help.

• Stay in Control: Never let your dog off the lead in a storm. High winds can carry strange scents and noises that might cause a dog to bolt in a panic.

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Extra Ways to Help Your Pets in Ireland

Beyond the basics, here are a few more steps you can take to ensure their safety and comfort:

• Drown Out the Noise: Turn up the TV or radio to help mask the sound of thunder and rattling windows. White noise or calming classical music can also be very effective.

• Check Your Tech: Ensure your pet’s microchip details are up to date. Storms are prime time for pets to go missing, and a chip is their best ticket home.

• Keep Them Occupied: Use puzzle toys, “lick mats,” or a game of indoor fetch to distract them from what’s happening outside. A mentally tired pet is a calmer pet.

• Mind the Cats: If you have an outdoor cat, keep them inside until the storm passes. Lock cat flaps to prevent them from bolting if they get spooked by a sudden gust.

• Consult Your Vet: If your pet’s anxiety is severe, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can discuss calming aids like pheromone diffusers, “thundershirts,” or, in some cases, prescribed medication.