When dogs are afraid of storms, what can you do?

Two out of my three dogs are terrified of storms and fireworks; so much so that they pace furiously, shake uncontrollably, and search for the place they feel safest (like wedged between the couch and end-table or sitting on my head).

Instead of each passing year getting better and desensitized, their stress level had reached sad proportions. No amount of comfort or treats made them feel at ease, so I thought, "What can I do?"

Thanks to many searches on the web, Twitter, and Facebook, I finally found something that made a difference -- RESOURCES Canine Anti-Anxiety & Calming Formula tablets, which contain Melatonin, and this new piece of clothing called the Thundershirt®.

What's a Thundershirt®, you ask? According to the company's website, www.thundershirt.com, "with its patent-pending design, Thundershirt’s gentle, constant pressure has a dramatic calming effect for most dogs if they are anxious, fearful or over-excited."

At first I wasn't convinced, but after reading tons of positive reviews, and a little insight from my pal on Twitter, @fearfuldogs, I figured that I didn't have much to lose at this point.

We've had three loud storms since the shirts arrived, and I'm happy to report that both dogs seem more relaxed and are content to lay down and take a nap; it's almost as if they hadn't even noticed the thunder. 


Now, if I could just get all three of them to calm down when ANYONE comes to my house!

Sharing is rare

Sharing is rare
Originally uploaded by reneetellezphotography

Today was kind of a busy day and it didn't end when I got home. It was cold, rainy and just plain yucky out. Since a walk was not going to happen today, I decided to do a little work. Even though they would rather be playing, when Mommy's working they are my little angels. So bored, but so patient. They'll even share a pillow once in a while, which almost NEVER happens.

Even though they are naughty at times; they always know when it's important to be good. My sweet little fur-babies.

Trying to get Mel to sing

Trying to get Mel to sing
Originally uploaded by reneetellezphotography

Proper Feeding

Eating Dinner
Originally uploaded by reneetellezphotography

"Free" feeding encourages picky eating and stealing (in a multiple dog family). Leaving food out can also attract unwanted visitors, like rodents and other unwanted pests.

Dogs like routine even more than people. Feeding your dog twice a day, at a scheduled time, is important for their overall digestive and emotional health.

It is also very important to know how much your dog is eating. Overeating can be dangerous and bad for the waistline. Having a fit and trim dog helps prevent heart health issues, as well as making it easier on their joints. Don't follow the "recommended" amount listed on the bag/can of food. Every dog needs a different amount of food, depending on activity amount, temperature, size and age. Talk to your veterinarian to see what they suggest.