In most cases, the fear of storms is usually related to the noise component, although in some dogs, the combination of flashing lights and noise may play a factor. Elimination of this phobia is very time-consuming and involves several well-established training techniques. To get a dog acclimatized to the thunder, one technique called "systematic desensitization" can be used. With this method, your dog is exposed to storm noises at such a low level that she will not react to them. (You can use commercial recordings of thunderstorms or record your own storm noises. Before starting, the recording should be played loudly to check to see if it will illicit a fear response from your dog).

The sound level is increased gradually over a period of time until such time as your dog experiences a fear reaction. You should not comfort your pet at this point as this will only serve to reinforce the fear behaviour. Instead, reduce the sound level and continue the training process but at a more gradual rate. Over a period of time (usually weeks) the noise level is increased to such a point that your dog will no longer fear it. If your dog is also afraid of lightning, a strobe light can be used to simulate lightning.

Another technique (called counterconditioning) can be used simultaneously during this training session. It involves distracting your dog during a mock storm with an easy training session (e.g. "sit", "stay", "come") and then rewarding it for obedient behaviour. This serves to replace the fear emotion with one of satisfaction and enjoyment.

If these methods fail, consult your veterinarian. He or she may advise you of some other training techniques to use, with or without the use of behaviour modification drugs or tranquilizers.

"Reprinted with permission from www.animalhealthcare.ca