FOLLOW UP -- Thundershirts: What Are They & Do They Work?

Back in January, I wrote a blog about the increasingly popular Thundershirts entitled "Thundershirts: What Are They and Do They Work?"

Well, as stated, we decided to do our own experiment with our own anxiety-ridden pup and see how the Thundershirt panned out for us...

It really didn't - for Molly at least.

Now, to be fair, Molly was an owner-surrender and has obviously suffered from severe neglect and aggression, leaving her with serious anxiety issues. We thought we'd give the Thundershirt a try on her, however, it didn't really seem to make a difference in her demeanor.

With that said, Thundershirt reports over 80% of dogs show significant improvement in symptoms when using Thundershirt. And, lots of my clients have had a positive experience with Thundershirt as well.

So, in my opinion, Thundershirt is a hit-or-miss item. I truly believe in the idea behind it (I mean we swaddle newborns to help calm them and make them feel safe & secure, so it only makes sense it would work for our furry friends too).

In Molly's case, I think she needs consistency, love and security to overcome her inherent issues - much more then a shirt can provide. However, if your pup suffers from bouts of anxiety, I would suggest giving it a try. If nothing else, it makes a cute shirt :).

If you've tried the Thundershirt out, we'd love to hear your feedback and we'll share it on our blog. E-mail us your stories and a picture of your pup in its very own Thundershirt!

MJ

Thundershirts: What Are They & Do They Work?

Thundershirt Navy Blue Rugby Style

 

 

Thundershirt Pink Rugby Style

Is your pampered pooch afraid of thunderstorms? Does he/she suffer from anxiety or have a fear of strangers? If so, you are not alone! In fact, one company has created an entire business model around animal anxiety, seeking to help ease our furry friend's nerves with - get this - a shirt!

According to its Web site, "Thundershirt’s gentle, constant pressure has a dramatic calming effect for most dogs if they are anxious, fearful or over-excited. Based on surveys completed by over two thousand customers, over 80% of dogs show significant improvement in symptoms when using Thundershirt. Thundershirt is already helping tens of thousands of dogs around the world, and is recommended by thousands of veterinarians and dog trainers." You can read more about How It Works on the Thundershirt Web site.

THE TEST:

Meet Molly.

Molly is a two year old Schnauzer with significant aggression and anxiety issues. She was surrendered by her owner to Schnauzer Rescue Florida and was then adopted by her foster, Karan - who also happens to be my Mom.

So, as an experiment, we have ordered Molly a thundershirt and it is currently being shipped our way.

Stay tuned for our findings in the weeks ahead.

It sure appears to be a great concept!

M.J.