In the past couple of years, both Cali and Koala have decided that they dislike thunderstorms.

Cali becomes increasingly anxious as a storm approaches. It’s not the noise of the thunder that bothers her; she is anxious long before the storm starts. She’s totally fine with ordinary rainstorms, too. But large storms with air pressure changes ratchet up her anxiety. She paces and acts clingy. In really bad storms, she wants to sit on my lap where she shakes as I soothe her.

I’ve tried several things that help a little … melatonin, CBD treats, T-Away oil, a Thundershirt.

But.

I’ve found a remedy that really works: Aromatherapy.

I got an aromatherapy kit for my birthday (thanks, Kurt & Casey!!). It came with several essential oils, including lavender and something called chill pill. I used it a few times … and Cali seemed to like it. Then I decided to try it during a storm. Knocks her right out.

In the last storm, a really windy one with hail and thunder and heavy rain, I used chill pill. Cali and Koala both stretched out under my desk and snored away. Totally unconcerned.

I like it too.

Note that some essential oils are harmful or toxic to dogs. Here’s a list:

• Cinnamon
• Citrus (d-limonene)
• Pennyroyal
• Peppermint
• Pine
• Sweet birch
• Tea tree (melaleuca)
• Wintergreen
• Ylang ylang
• Anise
• Clove
• Thyme
• Juniper
• Yarrow
• Garlic

And an article with more information: 5 Steps to Make Essential Oils Safe for Dogs.

So, within safe parameters … experiment and see whether some oil or blend will relieve your dog’s anxiety!