Summer Storm Anxiety: Helping Knoxville Pets Stay Calm

We’re no strangers to severe weather in this part of Tennessee, but that doesn’t mean our pets welcome unpredictable storm systems. Flooding, tornado warnings, thunderclaps, and the range of associated hazards take extreme tolls on a pet’s tolerance, comfort and adaptability. Along with Volunteer Veterinary Hospital, you can help your pet by preparing for serious situations, prioritizing their relative well-being, and staying close to them in moments of fear, panic and anxiety.

What to Know Beforehand

Stressed pets often pace, pant, yawn, and hide. With this in mind, it’s critical to observe any changes to their behavior and appearance as a way to give them what they need. Because pets will sense a storm long before we do, they may start to show signs of stress and anxiety prior to the actual storm.

As barometric pressure changes, winds pick up. This can throw a pet’s keen senses off. If they respond to their fight-or-flight instinct, they may end up lost, missing, and permanently separated from their owners. We are always happy to discuss microchipping with pet owners, and we can check to see what a pet’s microchip says when scanned in our office.

Why Identification Matters

Lost or missing pets are returned to their owners with greater frequency when they are microchipped and outfitted with personal identification tags. Without proper and current identifiers, pets may never be reunited with their people.

It is critical to ensure that pets are secured before, during, and even after a storm passes, but exercise is one way that relieves their stress. If your pet is up to it, try to exercise them with a good walk, a game of fetch, or hide and seek before the actual weather rolls in.

Sometimes, storms occur with little to no notice. It’s always a good idea to have someone nearby to check on your pets if you happen to be away from them during severe weather.

Pet Thunderstorm Anxiety

High winds, torrential rains, and jarring thunder claps can unravel pets, even those known for their calm demeanor. To counter some of the fear, and the stress created by high anxiety levels, set up a small area of the house designed to cater to your pet’s needs. Be sure to play white noise, like a fan, or have the TV or radio on. Tasty snacks, fresh water, and toys can soothe many worries belonging to stressed pets, but the best medicine is your close presence. If possible, stay next to your pet, reassure them that everything’s going to be okay, and try to distract them with their favorite things.

If needed, we can work with your pet on their noise sensitivity and even prescribe them medication to administer when they get too nervous or anxious.

Knoxville Storm Safety for Pets

There are lots of ways to promote a pet’s comfort and well-being during crazy summer storms, but the best strategy must center on their overall safety and security. Once you are positive they are contained in a comfortable environment you can adjust what they see and hear throughout the storm and tailor your approach to how they feel.

If we can assist you further with questions about pet anxiety management, please give us a call at (865) 609‑0311.