04/15/2026
It’s 2:30 AM and I’m laying in bed wide awake after the adrenaline rush of a tornado warning… and all I can think about is how important emergency preparedness is for us and our dogs.
Getting my own dogs safely into the basement by myself tonight really put things into perspective.
We spend so much time working on training and behavior, but in moments like this, what matters most is:
• Can you get your dog to a safe space quickly?
• Will they follow you to a basement or interior room without hesitation?
• Can they settle when everything feels chaotic?
For so many dogs, especially those terrified of thunderstorms, these situations are overwhelming. The wind, the pressure changes, the sirens, and urgency from us….it’s a lot.
A few things I keep thinking about tonight:
• Practice moving to your safe space BEFORE you need it
• Keep high-value treats easily accessible
• Have a leash/harness ready to go
• Use something like a radio or steady noise to help drown out the storm sounds
• Work on calm, safe confinement and settling skills
* Have something ready for them to do and in place, like a long lasting chew, something to lick, or a favorite toy
Emergency prep isn’t just about supplies, it’s about your dog’s emotional ability to cope, and your ability to guide them through it.
If your dog struggles with storms, know I’m thinking about you tonight. These moments are hard. And they’re exactly why the work you’re doing matters so much.
Give your dogs an extra snuggle tonight 🤍
I’d love to hear what do you do to prepare your dogs for severe weather or emergencies? Anything you’ve found especially helpful?
*pic for tax: calm before the storm
