Credits: Social Media
Genius yet affordable thunder shirt invention is a lifesaver for my dog’s fireworks anxiety
After years of watching my dog stress, toil, and shriek, over fireworks and other loud noises, a $20 Amazon purchase dramatically reduced our practically symbiotic stress.
Pets require almost constant attention, money, and love, which is precisely why not everyone should own a dog. That being said, there is no beating the look on your dog’s face first thing in the morning.
My dog hates fireworks – what’s new?
Between dangerous plants, blazing summers, and bitterly cold winters, keeping your dog safe and sound can seem like a mountain of a task. Life is somewhat made harder if your dog has been diagnosed with anxiety, which is the case with my 9-year-old Shorkie, Murphy.
Murphy was the runt of the litter, a scruffy little fellow who seemed to stumble around amongst his siblings. That should have been the biggest hint to his temperament as an adult, but I had my puppy glasses on it seems.
As an adult Murphy is incredibly reactive to dogs, doorways that seem too narrow, car doors shutting, and fireworks. He’s not vicious or aggressive by any means, but he is very well acquainted with his bark.
Dogs hating fireworks is nothing particularly new, and well I have refrained from ranting posts on Facebook, unlike other owners, it’s a time I have come to dread. That was until I purchased a thunder shirt.
Thundershirts could be the answer to your fireworks problem
Thundershirts, or thundervests, are a simple yet genius invention that was initially dreamt up by Chicago dog owner Phil Blizzard. In 2024, there are countless dupes and alternative versions available, but how do they work?
Thundervests might look like any other piece of doggy clothing, but the coat itself is tightly wrapped around the dog’s body to create the feeling of a warm hug. They are not constricting, but they do tightly hug the dog’s body to keep pressure on their torso. In turn, this reduces stress through the excretion of calming hormones like oxytocin or endorphins.
Don’t be fooled by the name either as thundershirts are also great for dealing with separation anxiety, vet visits, travelling, and general stress-related barking.
The most popular brand is undoubtedly ThunderShirt, which not only sells the wrap itself but also an array of other calming products. Currently, the ThunderShirt will set you back between $39.95 and $52.00 depending on the size.
If that’s above your ideal price point, then are an array of cheaper options to choose from on Amazon, or at large-scale pet retailers like Petsmart and Petco.
