International Journal of Animal Health Development

APPRAISAL OF ASTRAPHOBIA IN PET DOGS

A.K. Kataria* and N.Kataria

akkataria1@rediffmail.com

Abnormal behaviour, Astraphobic dogs, Barking, Tachycardia.

A survey was conducted to find out the percentage of astraphobic dogs in the higher socio-economical group. Sixty dogs of common breeds kept as pets were screened on the basis of history taken from their owners. About 66.66% of total dogs screened showed astraphobia. Out of total astraphobic dogs, 50% were females and 16.66% were males. Breed-wise distribution of astraphobic dogs included 23.33% Pomeranians, 23.33% German Shepherds and 20% Labradors. Status of astraphobic and non-astraphobic dogs in each breed revealed that about 70% of total Pomeranians, 70% of total German shepherds and 60% of total Labradors were astraphobic. Situation of male and female astraphobic dogs in each breed exhibited that per cent of female astraphobic dog remained 16.66% each in all the three breeds. Per cent of male astraphobic dog remained same 6.66% each for Pomeranian and German Shepherd and 3.33% for Labrador. The upshot clearly reflected that higher percentage of dogs showed astraphobia irrespective of breeds. Perhaps difference in behaviour was a part of coping styles which can be useful in understanding individual adaptive capacity and vulnerability to stress. It is suggested that due attention must be given to pets in the house during the periods of thunder storms. Changes in behaviour can be noticed secondary to lightning strike at a distant place. Proper appraisal of abnormal behaviour in pets is imperative to approach for treatment on individual basis. Pets require patience and understanding from their caretakers during frightening environment and need compassionate soothing. Preparedness is always better than trying to react during a crisis. Safe, secure and comfortable environment must be arranged for the pets before a storm. Seek advice from the veterinarian for medications that might assist in composing the pet and trim down its trepidation for the storm.