August | 2013 | Blog by Barking Up the Right Tree

This summer has been the rainiest in Atlanta history in a long time.  The benefits of the rain include lower temperatures and great looking lawns.  However, dogs often have to be forced outside on rainy days.

Dogs once lived in the wild.  However, many modern day breeds were never wild dogs but have always been human companions.  We often think that its a dog and he should be able to go out to do his business on a rainy day.

Just as humans do not want to get wet neither do dogs.  We do not like the pelting rain or the soaking feeling.  Some dogs would rather hold it than go out and do their business.

For many dogs going out in the rain is not about getting wet.  Dogs have more sensitive ears and hearing than people.  The sound of the rain is amplified in dogs ears.  As humans, many of us love the sound of rain.  Rain sounds like nails on a chalkboard to a dog.  One of the reasons a dog hesitates and starts to back up when faced with rain is the sound alone.

When rain moves through it is using part of a frontal system.  These weather systems are often accompanied by changing barometric pressure.  Changing barometric pressure also affects a dog’s ears by making them feel like they need to pop.  Humans experience a similar situation during air travel or when driving through mountains.  Our homes are pressurized to a certain degree and the changes in pressurization adds to the feeling of fullness in the dog’s ears.

Some dogs have a thunder phobia.  This fear not only has a psychological element but dogs experience the physical symptoms related to amplified to hearing and changes in barometric pressure.  Thunder phobia may require a conservation with your vet or pet trainer.

On rainy days, it is best to plan in advance.  Try to take your dog out for exercise before the rain starts.  Consider activities you can play with your dog inside.  Also, if one of the entrances to your home is covered consider letting your dog out that entrance on a rainy day.

In order to help relieve your dog’s discomfort during rainy and stormy days, stock up on a few items from your pet supply store.  In order to relieve the pressure in dogs’ ears they need to chew on something for an extended period of time.  Try a long lasting chew or bully stick.  Figure out what your dog enjoys the most BEFORE the rain and keep a few on hand.

Many dog trainers and pet care professionals recommend tranquility blends and thunder shirts for your dog.  As pet sitters, we always recommend consulting with your veterinarian if your pet has thunder phobia or other forms of separation anxiety.  However, convey your vet’s instructions to your pet sitter so that treatment remains consistent.

Just like us, dogs do not want wet feet and to be soaked to the bone.  Remember that rain also causes uncomfortable physiological symptoms in dogs.  If your dog has to go out in the rain, then make sure to towel him off and give him an extra treat.