Dallas summers are infamous for their intense storms; thunder, lightning, and even tornado threats can rattle both homes and nerves. For pet parents, these storms can be especially stressful, as many dogs, cats, birds, and small animals are deeply unsettled by loud noises and sudden changes in pressure. Here’s a comprehensive guide to preparing Dallas homes and pets for summer storms, ensuring everyone feels safe no matter what this summer brings.
Preparing Dallas Homes and Pets for Summer Storms
Create a Safe Space
Pets instinctively seek out small, dark, and quiet spaces during storms. Set up a storm shelter in your home, such as a closet, bathroom, or small windowless room. Make this area cozy with your pet’s favorite bed, blankets, and toys. Add treat-filled puzzles to provide distraction, and consider using species-specific pheromone diffusers or sprays to enhance the calming effect. Leave the door open so your pet can access this safe space whenever they need it.
Consider Sound Therapy
Sound therapy can also be surprisingly effective. Studies have shown that classical music and reggae, in particular, can help soothe anxious dogs. Play a calming playlist or leave the TV on low volume to help mask the sounds of thunder and wind.Or, ask your personal home assistant like Alexa to play soothing music for your pet. You can access Alexa from anywere via your smartphone or set up a routine to play in the afternoons, when most thunderstorms happen.
Prioritize Exercise and Playtime to Take the Edge Off
A tired pet is often better able to cope with external stressors. Regular cardiovascular exercise like brisk walks or runs, as well as mentally stimulating activities such as puzzle toys and training games, can help reduce overall anxiety and provide a healthy outlet for nervous energy. On stormy days, try to fit in a walk before the weather turns or engage in indoor play sessions to help your pet burn off steam.
Hire a Pet Care Provider
At PCPSI, we offer care 365 days per year. We ensure pet safety during storms by adjusting visit times, shortening walks, and engaging pets indoors during severe weather. We also offer check-ins for noise-phobic pets. If you have a noise-phobic pet, schedule services with us this summer and we’ll stop by for a walk, some pets, or a whole therapy session with your pet! (Kidding, except if you have a pet with storm phobias, you know exactly what we’re talking about…)
Use Calming Treats, Supplements, or Pharmaceuticals
Severe storm anxiety is a real issue for many pets. Over-the-counter calming treats, such as WINPRO Dog Calming Treats, are designed to help promote rest and relaxation during stressful events like thunderstorms. For pets with severe anxiety, daily prescribed medications may be recommended by your veterinarian. These medications are typically started about a month before storm season and can be gradually discontinued after the season ends. Always consult your vet to determine the best approach for your pet.
Stay Home When Possible
Whenever possible, plan your schedule so you can be home with your pets during severe storms, especially on weekends or when severe storm systems are predicted. Your presence is comforting and allows you to monitor your pet’s stress levels and intervene if necessary. If you must leave, make sure your pet is safely confined indoors with access to a safe space as recommended above.
When you’re home, consider putting a ThunderShirt or similar anxiety wrap on your dog. These tools can provide a gentle, constant pressure that calms many pets during storms. Use these only when you can supervise your pet, as some pets may try to wriggle out or chew on the garment. Combine the ThunderShirt with calming treats and a safe space for maximum comfort.
Additional Storm Care Tips
Storm season is upon us and the following reminders are a great way to add a layer of safety and care for pets, whether they are sensitive to storms or not.
- Keep collars and ID tags up to date in case your pet bolts during a storm
- Limit outdoor time and ensure pets have access to fresh water and shade if a storm is approaching
- After a storm, check your yard for damage or hazards before letting pets outside
The Best Care for Dallas Pets
With preparation, patience, and a few calming strategies, you can help your Dallas pets weather summer storms with less stress and more peace. At PCPSI, we want to know if your pets are sensitive to noises and/or storms. Please enter this information in your pet’s profile and discuss their usual behaviors with us so that we can better support them during visits.
Park Cities Pet Sitter proudly provides cat sitting, dog sitting, and dog walking services in Bluffview, Deep Ellum, Downtown, Highland Park, Knox Henderson, Lake Highlands, Lakewood, Lower Greenville, Medical District, North Dallas, Oak Lawn, Northwest Dallas, Northeast Dallas, Old East Dallas, Preston Hollow, Turtle Creek, University Park, Victory Park.
To learn more about our services, please visit our FAQs and contact us at 214-828-0192 and pets@pcpsi.com. Finally, you may also register via our client portal here. Existing clients, please submit reservations via this link.
To joining our team as a pet care provider, please click here.
