Porky and Buddy Pet Health – What’s The Deal With Thundershirts?

Dear Porky and Buddy,
Do you know anything about so-called Thundershirts? I think they are like a straightjacket for dogs and I cannot imagine then being healthy. They sound like they are just a money-maker being sold to well-meaning dog owners thinking they are helping their pets.

Call me skeptical, I guess.
George

Dear skeptical George,
We checked them out – Thundershirts and similar products are not at all like straightjackets because they do not interfere with a dog’s movement at all.

Basically, they are just a pressure wrap, which applies soft, continuous pressure to a dog’s body, mostly its torso, sort of like a hug.

According to a survey conducted by the Thundershirt manufacturer, 80% of dogs that use Thundershirt show improvement in at least one anxiety symptom.

But there is more than just a self-congratulatory survey.

Experts like Dr Temple Grandin believe that pressure calms the nervous system for both people and animals.

This principle has been in use for years.

Touch dog trainers use pressure for calming, vets use it to relax cattle when giving them vaccinations, and autistic people use it to relieve anxiety.

So why not dogs who freak out about thunder, fireworks or other loud noises?

The ASPCA recommends use of Thundershirts and similar products for dogs who are anxious about loud noises, but in conjunction with behavior modification training and, in some cases, medication.

The Thundershirt Company has a money back guarantee for the first 45 days if you try one of their products, so it seems like there is no downside.

We would be interested in hearing from our readers whether they have tried this product or similar products and what they think.

Anxiety issues in dogs can be a serious problem, so anything that helps should be considered.

On the other hand, if your dog goes totally bonkers during a thunderstorm or other similar situations, you would be well advised to talk to your vet for more specific advice and perhaps an animal behavioral specialist.

The Oswego County Humane Society provides spay/neuter services and assistance, fostering and adoption of animals in urgent need, humane education programs, and information and referrals to animal lovers throughout Oswego County.

Located at 29 W. Seneca St., Oswego, NY.

Phone: 315-207-1070.

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.oswegohumane.org

Because People and Pets Are Good for Each Other.

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