And summer is anything but kind to many Australian homes. Already, bushfires are being predicted for South Australia, with many more extreme weather conditions on the way. Thunderstorms, heatwaves, and even fireworks can cause our companion animals distress.

So how do we deal with the upcoming weather theatrics and holiday festivities? Here’s a short primer to get you thinking about options for the summer ahead.

Part 1: Thunderstorms

Everyone has different tolerances and reactions to extreme weather – while one person will flinch every time they hear thunder, another person will quite happily go out in the rain and scream to the heavens, “bring it on!”.

How does your pet react to these occurrences?

My boys will usually flinch, but one of our guinea pigs is exceptionally sensitive to noise and light moreso than the rest of our clan. When storm season happens in Brisbane, we make sure that he has a secure and warm place to hide to comfort him. A colleague of mine has two small dogs – one would whine at the sound of thunder and the other would not be fussed. She has noted that they both now seek comfort next to her during a storm.

RSPCA Victoria reports the repercussions of “thunderstorm phobia”: “When dogs become frightened they will try to reduce their fear by either trying to escape the noise or by becoming more active as an outlet for their anxiety, often resulting in destructive behaviour. A dog at large and destructive behaviours increase the risk of injury to the dog.”

Knowing your companion’s responses to these events is your responsibility, and is in the best interest of you and your animal to provide a safe way to manage these reactions.

What can I do if I am not home?

• If a bad storm is forecast, consider what your animal needs. A warm space? A loving hug? Spend time with your mate and see what needs to be done.
• If your animal needs someone in the house with him/her, try to be at home if you have a safe method of getting there.
• If you cannot reach your home safely, try to find someone who can. Family and friends are your best options, as they will be familiar with your animal. Can they get access to your home in the case of an emergency?
• A trusted neighbour is your best ally. During bad weather, they can be your best way to check on the well-being of your pet if you are unable to get there. Of course, this puts the responsibility on you to introduce your pet to your neighbour – the sooner, the better.

What can I do if I am home?

• During a storm, give your animal access to the place that he/she feels safe. This could be anywhere – under a table, on your bed, or a private space in their hutch. Dissuading this behaviour can cause anxiety for your animal. Frankly, what would you prefer – for Fido to pee on your rug, or for him to run around the house and damaging the property, injuring you or injuring himself?
• Distraction therapy for your dog or cat is a good activity if your pet seems anxious. Food is always a great motivator, so having a chew toy or some fruit and vegetables will give your animal something to do. Encouraging small games that allow them to exert a little bit of that pent-up energy is also a great distraction (tug of war, chase the mouse, etc.).

On Saturday, Part 2 of our Weather Warning series will look into how to help your pets cope with the impending heatwave.