A case of thunderstorm phobia in a Maremma sheepdog

A 5-year-old neutered female Maremma sheepdog, probably crossed with a Retriever, was examined due to a severe phobia of thunderstorms and loud noises. Adopted in late summer, she immediately presented signs of thunderstorm phobia and nocturnal awakenings. For this reason, the owners immediately turned to a veterinary behaviorist, who recommended behavior modification training based on creating a safe zone, desensitization and counter-conditioning with general thunderstorm sound effects. The therapy seemed to have immediately an effective outcome immediately, thanks to the start of autumn and decreasing thunderstorms, however due to the return of spring the dog started to show the same symptoms again. During the second visit, performed by the author, videos of nocturnal awakenings and panic reactions associated with thunderstorms were evaluated. The diagnosis was of phobia of thunderstorms and loud noises, characterized by sporadic panic attacks. Behavioral modification therapy was continued and Adaptil Collar® was introduced and Alprazolam as needed was prescribed. After the first summer, the owners agreed to administer Clomipramine on an ongoing basis to prepare the dog for the next summer. In the presence of medium-intensity thunderstorms, behavioral manifestations were reduced to trembling only and symptoms of anxiety in response to a change in barometric pressure had almost disappeared. Finally, thanks to the results obtained and to meet the requests of the owners, the following year will be managed by stopping the therapy with Clomipramine and keeping the Alprazolam as needed.