Helping dogs recover from natural disaster trauma

When natural disasters strike, dogs can suffer a lot of emotional trauma. Get expert advice on recognizing the signs and helping your dog recover.

From floods to wildfires, natural disasters are becoming more frequent. They claim lives – human and animal — and cause untold damage. Even after the emergency ends and cleanup begins, the trauma of living through a disaster lingers — for our dogs as well as for us. 

Humans have access to resources that help them through the emotional stress of a natural disaster. But what about our dogs? Dr. Karen van Haaften, a veterinary behaviorist with the ASPCA’s Behavioral Sciences Team, shares advice on helping dogs recover from trauma after a natural disaster.

Q. What causes trauma in dogs caught in natural disasters?

A. Being separated from their family and/or home can be scary enough for a dog. If they get lost or are taken to an emergency shelter, the trauma can be more extensive. Dogs that go through harrowing experiences may develop something similar to post-traumatic stress disorder.

Q. What are the signs of disaster-related trauma in dogs?

A. Familiarize yourself with your dog’s body language and keep track of any changes. Watch for signs such as vocalizing, howling, whining, barking, house-soiling, destructive behaviors, or separation anxiety.

A dog who has experienced a storm may become more sensitive to loud, percussive noises like fireworks, gunfire, or thunder. If your dog shows signs of distress when hearing certain noises, try to pair the sounds with something they enjoy, such as special tasty treats or a favorite game of fetch. 

Q. Can dogs overcome the fear and stress caused by natural disasters?

A. Most dogs are resilient and will recover from a stressful or fearful life event. Time and patience are key. Keep your dog’s routine consistent during recovery. Include daily chances for social time, play, rest, and mental stimulation.

Q. How long does it take for dogs to recover from natural disaster trauma?

A. If your dog doesn’t return to normal behavior within a week or two, speak with your vet or a veterinary behaviorist. They may suggest anxiety-reducing supplements or medications. These can help your dog readjust, especially if you had to  evacuate or move to a new home.

Q. How can you support your dog’s recovery from natural disaster trauma? 

A. Any changes to your dog’s life and comfort levels can impact their behavior — from relocating to a safe place to changes in their surroundings (sights, odors, sounds). Even small disruptions in routine can have an effect.

After a natural disaster, try to keep daily routines — walks, meals, and playtime — as consistent and predictable as possible. Set up a quiet, dark, comfortable retreat where your dog can go when needed. If they appreciate attention and physical affection when upset, console them as much as needed.

Dogs often sense human emotions, so if you feel anxious, your dog will likely notice and mirror that anxiety. While it can be challenging to hide your worries, do your best to put on a brave front for your dog. Don’t scold your dog if they begin exhibiting new behaviors linked to fear, anxiety, or stress.

If your dog is too frightened to respond to treats or toys, consult your veterinarian. This is especially important if they avoid going outside in any weather, fear familiar people, or show fear-based aggression. 

Your vet might refer you to a certified applied animal behaviorist or veterinary behaviorist, depending on your dog’s symptoms and behavior. 

Q. What are some practical tips for helping dogs feel safer before and during a disaster?

A. Preparing in advance of a natural disaster can help you and your dog cope when/if it happens. The ASPCA’s disaster preparednessresources cover steps you can take ahead of an emergency. 

A disoriented dog may wander away from home in a crisis, so make sure they remain indoors. If you have to evacuate, ensure your dog has appropriate walking equipment (collar with ID tags, harness, and leash, a microchip, and/or tracking/GPS collars).  

Train your dog to feel comfortable in a crate. This is a useful skill to practice in preparation for natural disasters (along with other experiences, such as car travel). If you know you may be in the line of a disaster, prepare your dog’s crate in advance.

If evacuation seems likely, crate your dog in advance to avoid last-minute stress. This ensures you’re ready to go when the time comes. You’ll also find it easier to locate your dog and guide them into the crate. This works best when they don’t sense the urgency of a last-minute evacuation.      

Do not leave your dog behind in an emergency. If you have to evacuate during a disaster, always bring them with you. Do not tether them to poles or trees; this can prevent them from escaping high water, storm debris and other dangers. 

Q. In cases of severe trauma, do dogs experience long-lasting behavioral changes? Are some breeds more resilient than others? 

A. Dogs, like people, are individuals with their own personalities. They can be very different from each other, even within the same breed. For example, some dogs are naturally more shy/timid, while others might be more outgoing.

Stereotyping a breed is not helpful when it comes to trauma response and how to aid your dog. Your dog will not necessarily respond to or cope with a natural disaster the same way another of the same breed might.  

 Some dogs develop lasting behavioral or emotional effects after trauma. However, it’s hard to predict if this will happen — or what changes a specific dog might show. It’s best to evaluate and treat your dog according to their specific needs. 

Natural disasters are increasingly common. A preparedness plan for you and your dog will help you get through the emergency unscathed, but some trauma is likely inevitable. Helping dogs recover from natural disaster trauma means recognizing signs of distress and knowing how to support them on the road back to a normal life.

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