Overlooked Shelter Pup Proudly Watches As All Of Her Fur Buddies Get Adopted

Shelter dogs spend most of their time inside a kennel, dreaming of a better future. They hope that they will eventually find their happily-ever-after.

As soon as stray dogs hear visitors entering the shelter, they get excited and they start wagging their tails. Their eyes fill with hope that soon, they’ll meet the parents of their dreams.

Most of the dogs start barking. They try to draw attention to themselves and encourage potential adopters to look them in the eyes and choose them.

Sheba was one of the shelter pups who was quiet. She was closely watching the people passing by her kennel. The pup was losing hope that she would ever experience true happiness.

The Fateful Encounter With Her Mom

Sarah was one of the visitors who came to meet pups at Fulton County Animal Services. The shelter is managed by LifeLine Animal Project, and it is located in Atlanta, Georgia. 

She felt lonely and decided to find her best friend at the shelter. 

As Sarah walked around the kennels, a particular pup attracted her attention. While the other dogs were barking, Sheba was quietly sitting in her tiny kennel with a sad expression on her face.

The moment Sarah looked at her beautiful, soulful eyes, she fell in love.

When Sarah saw Sheba again in the play yard, the pup approached her and jumped up. Sheba wanted affection. As soon as she met Sarah, she felt that she was her person.

Sarah petted the pup’s belly, giving her love that she missed very much.

The Loving Home Of Her Dreams

The two of them instantly bonded, and Sarah adopted her the same day. She didn’t know the pup’s backstory, but she assumed that the delightful doggo was used for breeding.

“I assume that she was used for breeding and then she either ran away or they just dropped her somewhere because they didn’t need her anymore,” Sarah told GeoBeats Animals.

Ever since she took her home, Sarah wanted to shower Sheba with love and make her forget about her past.

The wonderful doggo made her mom happier, and she always motivates her to go out more. Sarah believes that her dog can always recognize when she needs more cuddles. She always comes up to her and kisses her mom’s face. 

They are inseparable, and nobody knows Sheba better than her mom. According to her, the pup has three different personality modes.

“Her first mode is like super sweet and loving. She loves cuddling.Then her other mode which a lot of other people don’t see, but I do is at home she can get grumpy and anxious if she hears noises. Then her third mode, I would say is just absolutely wild and clumsy,” Sarah said.

True Soulmates Who Adore Each Other

Sarah is overjoyed because she and Sheba found each other. Sheba feels like the happiest dog because she has the perfect mom – the one she always wished for.

Sarah considers herself lucky to have Sheba by her side, and she wants her to know how much she means to her.

“I tell her all the time how much I love her. I’m just so glad that she picked me. We’re like two peas in a pod and we get each other forever.”

Sheba left her past, sad life behind her, and she now lives her best life in Atlanta, Georgia. She often shares updates about her daily adventures on her Instagram account. She loves going on walks and cuddling with her mom.

If you’ve ever noticed your furry friend trembling or seeking comfort during a thunderstorm, you’re not alone. Dogs’ fear of thunder is a common phenomenon that can leave pet owners feeling helpless. Understanding the root cause of this anxiety can help you support your pup during these stressful times. Thunder can trigger a range of fearful behaviors in dogs, from hiding under furniture to excessive barking or panting. It’s essential to recognize these signs and provide the right kind of reassurance to help your canine companion feel safe and secure. So, why do dogs react this way to thunder? Let’s explore the fascinating reasons behind this common fear and how you can help your four-legged friend cope with it.

Understanding Canine Anxieties

The Science Behind Fear of Thunder in Dogs

Dogs’ fear of thunder is often a result of loud noises and sudden changes in air pressure during thunderstorms. These events can trigger a flight response in dogs, as they perceive these sounds and sensations as threats. Understanding this can help you empathize with your canine companion during storms.

How Dogs Perceive Thunderstorms

For dogs, thunderstorms can be a sensory overload. The loud cracks of thunder, bright flashes of lightning, and changes in atmospheric pressure can be overwhelming for their sensitive hearing and acute senses. This heightened sensory experience can lead to fear and anxiety in dogs, causing them to exhibit various stress behaviors.

Common Reactions of Dogs to Thunder

Physical Responses

Dogs’ physical reactions to thunder are often noticeable. They may tremble, shake, or pant excessively during a storm. This is due to the adrenaline rush caused by fear, leading to an increase in heart rate and respiration. Additionally, some dogs may seek hiding spots or become more clingy to their owners as a way to feel secure.

Behavioral Changes

During thunderstorms, dogs may exhibit various behavioral changes. They might pace, whine, bark excessively, or show signs of restlessness. Some dogs may try to escape or run away in a panic if they feel threatened by the thunder. Others may seek comfort by cuddling with their owners or hiding in confined spaces to feel protected. Understanding these common reactions can help you support your furry friend during stormy weather.

Factors Contributing to a Dog’s Fear of Thunder

Lack of Early Exposure

If a pup doesn’t hear storms as a young dog, they might find the sounds extra scary later in life. Similar to how new things can make anyone uneasy, unfamiliar thunderclaps can be distressing for dogs too. Early positive exposure to various noises helps pups adapt better as they grow up.

Previous Negative Experiences

Just like people, dogs can develop fears based on scary events in their past. If a dog has had a traumatic experience during a storm, like getting startled by lightning or a loud clap of thunder, it can stick with them. These negative associations can heighten fear and anxiety in future stormy situations.

Ways to Help Your Dog Cope With Thunder

Creating a Safe Space

Prepare a safe haven for your furry companion during thunderstorms. Choose a quiet room where your dog feels secure. Provide cozy bedding and favorite toys to help them feel more comfortable. Make sure the space is soundproof as much as possible to reduce loud noises.

Desensitization and Counterconditioning

Gradually expose your dog to the sound of thunder in a controlled manner. Play recordings of thunder at low volumes while engaging in activities your dog enjoys, like playing or treats. Associate the sound of thunder with positive experiences to help reduce fear and anxiety over time.

Professional Training and Therapy

Seek help from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist if your dog’s fear of thunder is severe. They can provide specialized training techniques and strategies to help your dog overcome their phobia. In some cases, therapy or medication may be recommended to manage extreme anxiety.

Tools and Products to Calm a Thunder-Phobic Dog

Anxiety Wraps and ThunderShirts

If your dog gets anxious during thunderstorms, consider using anxiety wraps or ThunderShirts. These snug-fitting garments provide gentle pressure that can help calm your furry friend by making them feel secure. Many dogs find comfort in wearing these during storms.

Calming Supplements and Pheromones

Another option to help alleviate your dog’s thunder phobia is using calming supplements or pheromones. Supplements with natural ingredients like chamomile or L-theanine can have a soothing effect on your pet. Pheromone products, such as sprays or diffusers, release calming scents that can help reduce your dog’s stress levels during thunderstorms.

Conclusion

Helping your furry friend deal with thunderstorms is essential. By understanding the reasons behind their fear and implementing strategies like creating a safe space, desensitization techniques, and using anxiety-relief products, you can provide comfort and support during stormy weather. Remember, your dog’s well-being is a top priority, so be patient and empathetic as you help them navigate their fear of thunder. With your care and understanding, you can make a significant difference in easing your dog’s anxiety and ensuring they feel safe and secure during loud and frightening thunderstorms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do dogs fear thunderstorms?

Dogs fear thunderstorms due to loud noises and sudden air pressure changes, causing physical and behavioral reactions. Factors like lack of early exposure to storms and past negative experiences contribute to this fear.

How can I help my dog cope with thunderstorms?

You can help your dog cope with thunderstorms by creating a safe space, desensitizing them through controlled exposure to thunder sounds, seeking professional training or therapy for severe cases, and using tools like anxiety wraps, ThunderShirts, calming supplements, and pheromones to provide comfort and reduce stress levels during storms.

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