Thunderstorm Fears

If your dog has fear/behavior issues during a thunderstorm you need to desensitize him/her from the event.
(Typical thunderstorm season runs June through August on average.)

Start by playing thunderstorm sounds on a cd. Increase the volume over time.

During the sound listening or during a real storm, distract him/her by playing then rewarding the good happy playing behavior with a treat.

Don't pet or stroke your dog to sooth him/her during a storm. This just reinforces their fear.
Go about doing your regular everyday business ignoring the outside happenings. Eventually your dog will catch on that there is nothing to fear.

If none of these work, talk to your vet. Your vet may prescribe a short acting medication that calms your dog.

Here is another article with a bit more info.
Also -- there are many comments/stories by other owners on how they cope.

Lyme Disease

Lyme Disease which is transfered by ticks (if the tick has been on your dog for a day or two) can be tested for with a blood test at the vet's.

If your dog tests postitive, it can be treatable with drugs for a few weeks.
If your dog needs other shots -- they will be given to your dog AFTER the drug treatment is completed.

There is also a vaccine to prevent Lyme disease. If your dog has not had it, and if you live in an area where there is a chance of getting it, then get the vaccine as a precaution.

Dogs that are kept outside or spend lots of time outside, and if you live near woods, then it may be a strong consideration to get the vaccine.

Discuss this health issue with your vet.

Symptoms and Treatments Article

Six Symptoms (easy read article)

Detailed Article with photos

Needle Soreness

Ben and Casey's Mom reports/asks:


Casey just got her second set of shots on Saturday and she did great.

However, that afternoon one of the kids picked her up and she howled!
We checked her out and it seemed like she was tender where she got her needle.
I didn't experience this with Bailey....is this normal?

TammieB pips in:

We took Abby (2years old) to get her shots the other day and she has acted like she is really sore too. I don't remember her being that way before.

LeoBensMom responds:

Our Leo had the same problem after his shots.
I asked the vet, and he told me to give him baby aspirin, 5 mg per pound of body weight.
It did the trick.
I guess it is just like our hug our kids after they got their baby shots.
With Leo, the whole thing was over in a day or so.

Good luck with your little ones!