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How To Calm Your Dog – Thundershirt Contest

by on Jul 11th, 2011
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Our Boy BusterOur boy Buster … we love him to death, but he can be a handful. It’s not his fault – he didn’t get a fair shake the first year of his life. And though we don’t know his exact circumstances, he was a mess when we found him abandoned in Philly.

He acted like he’d never been on a leash before and, at 75 pounds, dragged us everywhere. He wasn’t house trained. He was afraid of stairs. He barked non-stop in the car.

That was more than three years ago and we’ve made a lot of progress. But, Buster still suffers the effects of what was likely a neglectful puppyhood and a less than ceremonious dumping. He whines a bit when we start driving, sometimes barks when we stop for gas or to pay tolls, and growls and barks at other dogs when he’s on leash.

We’re always looking for tools to help with Buster’s rehabilitation and training, so when we read about the calming effects of the Thundershirt we ordered one for his fourth birthday. Swaddling seems to agree with Buster. He passed out right after we put it on him the first time.

Buster's Thundershirt

With all dogs, some days are better than others. Subtle improvements can’t be measured, and that makes it difficult to know if a new tool is making an impact. We’ve spent the past six weeks observing Buster’s behavior with and without the Thundershirt in the situations he finds most challenging.

When we’re driving, Buster’s Thundershirt fits nicely under his seat belt harness, and he’s definitely calmer. His barking and whining are so much better, in fact, that one day when Buster was not wearing his Thundershirt we stopped for gas, and while Rod was tending the pump, I put it on him. Since then, it’s been a required part of our driving routine.

Buster in his Thundershirt

We’ve also noticed an improvement around other dogs when he’s on leash. He’s not all “Bob Marley,” but wearing the Thundershirt during our walks takes the edge off enough that he can hear me and respond to commands when he sees other dogs. It may not seem like a lot, but we’re really excited – it’s the first step in helping him choose a different behavior.

Walking Buster in the Thundershirt

He’s even getting good at helping me get the Thundershirt on him. I secure the chest straps and tell him, “put your t-shirt on.” He sticks his head though the hole and stands still while I snug the flaps under his belly. And people have been complimenting him on his snappy attire.

Boys on the bench

We’ve found the Thundershirt to be well-made and easy to use. Buster’s took a direct hit when he introduced himself to a skunk, and I’m happy to report it washed beautifully – though be sure the Velcro is fastened or it will come out stuck to every one of your socks.

The Thundershirt costs $36 and can be purchased on the company’s website, at pet supply stores, or on other Internet sites. You can also connect with Thundershirt on Facebook to read the experiences of more of their customers.

If you’ve tried a Thundershirt to help your dog, please share your experience in the comments below.

Enter Now

This contest is now closed. The winner is Lauren F and her dog Desmond!

Disclosure: We purchased a Thundershirt and the opinions expressed here are my honest assessment of the product based on my personal experience using it.

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Comments

Comment Archive

Wordless Wednesday: Thundershirt Edition Jul 20, 2011 at 10:33 am
[...] if it ever goes public. My friends Rod and Amy Burkert at GoPetFriendly.com just finished a Thundershirt giveaway contest – sorry, they have a winner — that elicited raves about the product.  Caleb, pictured [...]
Suebeebuzz Jul 19, 2011 at 11:55 pm
Were any anouncements made?  any winners?  funny we are having stroms here bad today.. I have one guy under a table.. i think im about to order a thunder shirt now.. i found a add in redbook mag for free shipping! 
Linda Clough Jul 17, 2011 at 12:03 am
Would love to try this for my 15+ yr. old minpin. I can no longer leave her home alone because she can't stand or walk very well but riding in a car makes her extremely anxious and the stress is very hard on her. We have even considered putting her down to spare her (and us) the anxiety. This might be the answer!
Claudia M. Jul 16, 2011 at 3:55 am
we got a little rescue min - pin who is deadly afraid of thunder and maybe it would help on our walks taking the edge off like you said :) subscriber :) cdm65atmaildotcom
lauren e Jul 16, 2011 at 2:37 am
We adopted Tazz 2.5 years ago when he was 6. He quickly bonded to me and I became his favourite family member. He loves everyone else, but if I'm home, he's right by my side. He stresses out when I leave. It's not extreme, but he doesn't sleep soundly, if at all, when I'm not home. When he hears a sound, he'll start barking, crying, and running around in circles. He's much better then when we first adopted him, but I'm curious to see if the Thundershirt would help his anxiety. He also stresses out when my dad sneezes and occasionally when the phone rings. blink_gurl123@hotmail.com
Terri Jewett Jul 16, 2011 at 2:33 am
Our Jesse just turned 12, she would benefit from a "Thunder Shirt" for several reasons. She has terrible seperation anxiety, and summer thunderstorms scare her so bad. She probably wont be with us much longer, it would be nice to try out your product. She also has an enlarged esophagus, which stresses her out we are doing much better with that. It would be a blessing to recieve a "Thunder Shirt"' to make the last years of her life a little less stressful. Thank you for your consideration. terri.jewett@comcast.net Jesse says Hi too.. :o)
Mbolism1 Jul 16, 2011 at 2:24 am
I'm a dog trainer & my demo dog who assists me with my classes is my standard poodle, Sugar. She is the perfect dog with one exception: she's afraid of thunder. When it thunders, she has to lay or sit right on top of me. This is especially problematic in the middle of the night when I wake up unable to breathe because there's a 45 lb poodle on me! I'd love to have a thundershirt for her not only to help us hopefully sleep at night when its storming, but I'd love to be able to bring it to my training classes to show my students. I love sharing training tools with them, and the thundershirt is one of my favorites. I've just never needed one until now as I've only had Sugar since late last year & when she was rehomed with me I didn't know about her phobia. We would be a great spokesperson & spokesdog! Sincerely, Marilynn Cole & Sugar.
Kelly Ellis Jul 16, 2011 at 1:54 am
I have been hearing a lot about the Thundershirt in the last several months and I cannot wait until my family has the extra funds to buy two. As our two rescue dogs, Winston & Monster get older, they are becoming increasingly afraid of storms and thunder. This has become very apparent in the last two years. In addition, both have general anxiety issues (daily) and Monster has both anxiety and OCD tendencies. We believe too that their backgrounds of severe neglect and abuse is where the issues stem from. I would truly love to see if the Thundershirt could bring some calm to these boys. We love them with all of our hearts and always want to help them in any way we can.
Melanie Moreno Lombard Jul 16, 2011 at 1:47 am
My four year old daschund Marley could really benefit from a thundershirt.  My little boy is always on my hip and starts shaking when he sees me getting dressed for work.  When I come home, if any of the other dogs come around us, he starts growling and will nip the couch or bed.  I think he will like the fact that he will feel like he's wrapped in a big hug!
Kirsten Jul 16, 2011 at 1:42 am
Wow ! Talk about serendipity. My beautiful dog charlie (lab/boarder collie mix) is still in the hospital after a a little episode. I rescued him at the age of 2 ( he's now 5 ) and my sense is he suffered a little abuse and neglect. Since i've had him he has had these un-usual attacks that look like he's choking and panics and starts licking everything. My vet started to research his behavior and found a few other dogs experiencing the same attacks. Apparently they believe it to be limbic seizures - difficult to treat & diagnose. His recent episode caused him to ingest so much by obsessive licking that it landed him in the hospital and required surgery. I'm finally able to pick him up tomorrow from the hospital & the thundershirt just might be the thing to help him stay calm. He means the world to me & if my vet bill hadn't been over $5000 i might be able to afford one for him. It would be incredible to win this for him ! my e-mail address is kirstens@stayinggrounded.com (kirsten schreiber)
Ashley johnson Jul 16, 2011 at 1:39 am
My  rescue dog, Charlie, is what some would call an anxiety nightmare. He has always had “separation anxiety” when I leave. A couple years ago his vet put him on a drug called Reconcile which is basically doggie Prozac. But he also has a terrible fear of fireworks, thunderstorms, vaccumes, and any other loud unexplainable noises. We have tried vet prescribed sedatives. We have tried accupuncture. We have tried training. Anytime there is fireworks now he has to be on doggie Zanex AND doggie Prozac. Seeing him have an anxiety attack is the sadest and scariest thing as a dog mother. He can’t get comfortable and wants to follow me everywhere while he whines, pants, shakes, and drools. The fireworks are legal at my house and when they get really excessive or start before I am home this will go on for hours, even with the regular Prozac and occasional Zanex. We have tried calming treats, music, exhaustion, pharamones. Literally everything in the 5 years I have had him. Any other time he is the most wonderful, happy dog you could imagine so it is just heartbreaking to see him so upset. His little “friends” have Thundershirts and have had decent success. His vet also recommended one for him on top of his other treatments. I feel like Charlie would be a wonderful canidate for the Thundershirt.
Pamsings2007 Jul 16, 2011 at 1:29 am
My little rescue crested is totally freaked out at storms or any type of perceived threat (rattling newpaper, etc) Cannot get him to walk on a leash due to his high level of anxiety!.  He pants and cries and shakes so hard he works himself up into a fit!  I would love to be able to calmly walk him on a leash!! Help us!!  pamsings2007@yahoo.com   thank you!!
SherryB Jul 16, 2011 at 1:27 am
I have a pom mix who came from a home where she was abused by the other animals.  She has been attacked several times and has an extreme fear of many situations as well as loud noises (fireworks, thunderstorms, etc.).  I am hoping that a Thundershirt can help my baby to overcome the fears that she has and be able to remain calm during normal situations where she would otherwise show great fear.
Jay Dee Jul 15, 2011 at 9:57 pm
Thunder upsets my dog- hopefully the thunder shirt would help! luckyjd2k at gmail dot com
Bart the Dumpster Dog Jul 15, 2011 at 9:06 pm
I get really scared when the boom booms start. I'm too big to hide under Mommy's desk so I was hoping you would send me one.
Katie Mitchell Jul 15, 2011 at 8:42 pm
I subscribe by e-mail katielynnmitchell@gmail.com
Katie Mitchell Jul 15, 2011 at 8:41 pm
It would be great for my beagle during thunderstorms and fireworks katielynnmitchell@gmail.com
suebee Jul 15, 2011 at 7:32 pm
My dog is a loving and normally calm dog but everytime I get a message or call om my cell phone she goes crazy and starts to pace around the house and panting she will not calm down she has even jumped on my bed and tried to dig her way under my pillows and sheets. It seems to be getting worse the older she gets, until my phone is shut off.She is a great hunting dog but is also afraid of the vacum, fireworks. I called my vet and ask if I could get some doggy anxiety medication and they recomended the thundershirt. I love my dog and she is the best dog I have ever had. Please help me !!! I'm at my wits end.
Trish B. Jul 15, 2011 at 7:27 pm
I have five thunderstorm phobic and firework phobic dogs! All are rescues. I have to tranquilize two of them as their phobia is so severe! I have been dying to try a Thundershirt. Lumpy, Sunshine, Bella, Honey and Pretty could really use one! Thank you so much!
Gloria Burnett Jul 15, 2011 at 6:28 pm
We have a 5 year old Lab that is scared to death of storms and fireworks. She shakes & tries to hide behind the toliet (all 110 pounds) or if we are sleeping she scratches and tries to get under our pillows. Our younger lab who is 3  has now started and we thnik it could be from watching her. He tends to follow her direction.
Nancy Dinsmore Jul 15, 2011 at 6:23 pm
I would love to win a thundershirt for my Pomeranian, Scarlett. She was rescued from a puppy mill at roughly age 5 where she was used as a breeder. She is a tiny little sweetheart but something about thunderstorms scares the life out of her. She shakes uncontrollably and we have tried everything to calm her down and console her. We live in Louisiana so we get some really loud and frightening storms. When we adopted her,  I promised her she would never suffer another day in her life. I think the thundershirt would help me keep my promise to her. Thank you! Nancy Dinsmore
Cap'n Crunchberry Jul 15, 2011 at 6:13 pm
My dog is a five year old Maltese / Bichon mix. She was a rescue. She is my princess and so calm and loving around myself, my wife and my mother. When she is out in public, she is barking, growling, nervously panting. As much training as she has had, she is extremely nervous and fear aggressive. The shirt hopefully would calm her down when she is out among other people. Stop her from being so nervous and frightened.
Kirsten Jul 15, 2011 at 6:10 pm
My big baby boy Gus is an 80LB rescue melting pot dog. A Thundershirt may just do the trick to help his confidence and boost his doggie ego. Plus all the ladies in my neighbourhood swoon over Gus's dashing good looks and I'm sure a Thundershirt would be a babe magnent!
Stephanie M Jul 15, 2011 at 4:51 pm
Like Buster, my 4-year-old rat terrier, Zippy, had a rough start to life, too. He was rescued during a raid at a puppy mill in northern Michigan at approximately 4 months of age, and then he spent nearly 5 months at our local animal shelter. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of a local community group (HATS-Humane Animal Treatment Society), our county animal shelter is new, clean, and full of beds and toys. There are plenty of dog-walkers and other volunteers, too, but, of course, they can't create familial bonds with the dogs they see just once or twice a week. Poor Zippy, though he had his basic care and medical needs met, was deprived of a family's love until we adopted him. He has absolutely thrived in the last 3+ years, but he still has some behavioral quirks like the age-old fear of thunder. Zippy also sometimes has a bit of a power struggle with me (as his primary caregiver) because I do the things that are unpopular--like file/clip his nails, brush his teeth, and take him to the vet! He also gets way too over-excited when we drive around town. In anticipation of seeing squirrels, he barks like mad when we drive down certain streets! And, being brilliant, he remembers exactly where we've seen squirrels before, whether we're in the car or out on a walk. For these reasons and more, I've been considering buying him a Thundershirt for a while. And while I'm at it, I'll buy one for his hyper 1-year-old rattie "sister," Zoey, too!
Shalmadine Jul 15, 2011 at 1:19 pm
Oops. I said Ty, cause I love his name, but Mia looks like a smooth coat Buster.
Debra Jul 15, 2011 at 1:18 pm
A thundershirt would help my Mia. (She may be a relative of Ty's. Black and tan and a bit unsettled all of the time. The word she hears most is "settle".) Anxiety is a part of our daily lives, but there is also never a dull moment with Mia. Her house behaviors are much better, but out in public is when she loses it. I would love to have her calmer in public, so she can get the attention she so craves from everyone.
Ashley C Jul 15, 2011 at 1:13 pm
I subscribe to your newsletter and I'm looking forward to hearing some great tips on traveling with our dog.  We hate leaving her at home! In 2 weeks we are driving 1500 miles to New York b/c I refuse to fly with her.
Ashley C Jul 15, 2011 at 1:12 pm
I think thundershirt will help my dog because she is a very hyper and anxious dog.  She is difficult to calm when she is all riled up and I'd love to be able to help her.  I feel helpless sometimes when it comes to external things around us that I cannot control but that causes her to feel anxiety.  She is a an amazing 9 mos old boxer who we love to no end and want to be the best parents we can be for her! Ashley Ashley41jones@gmail.com
I Am The Poop Fairy For Blog The Change Jul 15, 2011 at 3:02 am
[...] is the last day to enter our contest to win a [...]
Kim Annis Jul 15, 2011 at 5:51 am
A thundershirt would help both of my dogs. My eldest, a 13 yr-old mix, has increasing become terrified of thunderstorms, gunshots, and any loud bang that she hears. She has layrngeal paralysis so the panting and anxiety that comes with her noise fears puts her at risk of causing swelling in her throat. I would also like to see if it could help her relax in the presence of strange people and dogs. My newest girl, a 5 yr-old BC mix rescue, has multiple issues and I would like to see if a thundershirt could help her for some of them...primarily reducing anxiety when traveling in the car and anxiety barking at dogs she sees through the window while she is inside the car...this one is getting bad and nothing I've tried seems to be helping. I would very much like to try a thundershirt and see if there are benefits that I could promote in my rural community...I volunteer as a 4H dog project leader and there are several kids dogs that might benefit from a thundershirt. However, many members of my community are skeptical at doing anything but the "old school" way with dogs. If I see noticable differences in my dogs with versus without the thundershirt on, I would like to be able to show the community that doing some things differently with their dogs can be a good thing! I can be reached at: kimberly dot annis at gmail dot com.
Sillermoon Jul 15, 2011 at 4:04 am
 My boy Thor is a nine-month old German Shepherd and despite good lines and raising him properly/socializing him he is very reactive. Even in basic obedience the trainer told me "he needs a Ferrari handler, he has a hair trigger." The biggest problem is leash aggression toward anything that moves: people, dogs, people walking dogs, children running, bicycles! He also has barrier aggression in the car and will bark furiously at people walking or bicycles (my car is too small to crate him unfortunately). I've been meaning to try a Thundershirt with him to see if it helps 'ground' him. He wants to please us and is very bright, but his instincts get the better of him out in the real world.
Dyan Bryksa Jul 15, 2011 at 3:26 am
To walk our dog is like flying a kite in a hurricaine! I would love to see how a Thundershirt would improve that :) Dyan, Alberta, Canada dyan_bryk@hotmail:disqus 
sue lawlor Jul 15, 2011 at 1:23 am
I would love to try a thundershirt with my dog tia as she has a bad time every time we have storms.we have tablets from the vet but they make her very unsteady and sleepy.tia is a big dog,she is a cattle dog x bully.I hope the thundershirt works for her .   thanking you all. sue
Tara Jul 14, 2011 at 11:57 pm
we do northern rescue and currently have some young girls that are on the road to find adoptive homes....the one major challenge with these girls is that they are fear based in their interactions with strange or new dogs and become very reactive in this situation. i am very interested to see if the thundershirt could be the tool to help these girls find a balanced state while in these new social situations and have them become more adoptive pups. Tara tlisabrooks@hotmail.com
Kgriffith Jul 14, 2011 at 6:46 pm
I have a lab mix who has chewed thru metal doors, garage doors and  fences to get in out of a thunder storm.  It is getting so bad that she starts to shake 1/2 before a storm even arrives.  It doesn't even have to thunder - rain sets her off now.  I don't want to sedate her while we are at work.  We sleep with a sound machine with a thunder storm sound in hopes that it would help.  She is a very loving part of our family, and I hate to see her suffer.  I'm hoping a Thundershirt would really help her calm down.
Kelisu222 Jul 14, 2011 at 6:22 pm
We have a 9 year old lab who as time goes on gets worse.  Her fear is thunder storms and lound noises. The other day she chewed thru the fince.  We repaired it only to have her chew thru again the next day.  Then walked around the house looking for a way in.  First the garage door, both side frames and then the door.  Then on to the front door.  The door frame and a brand new wooden door.   Clawed and chewed.  She is a sweet dog otherwise.  We have two other rescues as well as an 11 year old lab with her all day.  My husband is at his last straw.  I know that if we were to attempt to find her a home, the first strom, she would be dropped off at the pound.
Michele Jul 14, 2011 at 5:41 pm
My rescue girl Chloe (whippet or italian greyhound mix) was a stray so we have no idea what her background was before I got her at a littler over 1 yr. Storms & fireworks don't bother her and she's never met a human she didn't like. Her problem is with other dogs and cars/trucks/buses when we're walking - she's very reactive and hard to refocus. Would love to try a thundershirt to see if it helps calm her.
Rebeccameyer87 Jul 14, 2011 at 2:01 pm
  Three weeks ago I got more than I could even ask for on my twenty fourth birthday. While taking Bella for a walk a cute black lab mix found us. We followed him to see if he was possibly lost. He was not neutered, no collar, no electronic chip, and was looking to find a lady. As he marked every tree and fence post, we decided to bring him home. Even though it is all too common for people to dump their pets in the street, I decided to do a search for a week. After shelters had been called with his picture emailed to them for their bulletin boards we still got no call.    He has a mild temperament with a particular interest with getting lots of ear scratches and pats on the head. He gets along so good with my playful 2 year old Alaskan husky. He is the friend I always wanted her to have. Even though all I expected on my birthday was cake and to spend some time with my husband, I feel so lucky to have gotten such a great furry present. Unfortunately with the good there is the bad, Buddy as friendly and perfect when I am home gets very distressed when I leave.    I guess he is feeling insecure since the first year or two of his life was not very stable. He has a good home, and was fast to love us so uninhibited. He has so many toys to play with that Bella has taught him to play with when he didn't first seem to understand. The point is we all love him, he loves us, and he is a good dog. Separation anxiety is a pretty big problem to handle since we all have to work or even go out to check the mail. I'm getting anxiety worrying about him being distressed at home.  It would be so great to have the Thundershirt. I really feel like the major hurdle we have  to jump with Buddy is his behavior issues while I am away. If we had the Thundershirt I feel like he would be content and comforted while I'm not home. rebeccameyer87@gmail.com
Red101 Jul 14, 2011 at 7:33 am
Our chihuahua, Pete, thinks he is a pitbull.  He is the sweetest dog as long as he is only with me and my husband.  If he gets around anyone else, he becomes devil dog - barking, spit flying, teeth bared - and he has the red eyes too, so he really does look like he is crazy. We really love Pete, but his behavior in polite company is embarrassing. We would love to try a Thundershirt. Thanks for your consideration. Roberta Thompson  red101@cox.net
Crazyronda316 Jul 14, 2011 at 4:27 am
This would be great for our Great Dane Bella. She is very timid even though we have been taking her everywhere since she was a little puppy. She gets very anxious when the kids ride by on their skate boards or we are at a very populated event. She will tuck her tail between her legs and hide between her dads legs when nice people want to meet her. We take her with us all the time but sometimes it is very stressful for her because of loud noises ad fast movement. Not sure what to do to help her anxiety. We love her so much and enjoy having her come with us when we go out to dinner, outlet mall, hardware store, dog park, and ect. Ronda and Jeremy Crazyronda316@msn.com
Bacarleton Jul 14, 2011 at 4:00 am
I've heard of Thundershirts, and always wondered if they really work. The Thundershirt would help my Chihuahua during thunder storms when she becomes severely stressed and even begins to panic.  Hopefully, I'm lucky in this contest. bacarleton(at)gmail(dot)com
Molly's Mom Jul 14, 2011 at 3:15 am
We got my dog Molly about 6 years ago from the local animal shelter.   When we got her, she was afraid to come out of her cage at the shelter, and she would not climb up the stairs in our home.   She even refused to come inside out of her crate for the first several nights, and we had to bribe her with food.   Well, Molly has gotten much better over the years, but she is still spastic when it comes to thunder storms.   She could honestly be a meteorologist.   About 15-20 minutes before it storms, Molly starts to slink away and look for a hiding place.   The closer it gets, the more withdrawn she is, and the more she looks for someplace small and confined to go, either under a table or into a room with no closets.   Once the storm is over, she is just fine.    Molly also has issues with small spaces.  She won't go in between the island in our kitchen and the kitchen cabinets UNLESS she knows she is going outside for a walk.   And, she will not walk between the sofa and chair into our den faced forward; she turns around and literally BACKS INTO THE DEN.   It is hilarious to watch.  I don't know what might have happened to Molly when she was younger to make her so very skiddish, but a friend told me about the Thundershirt just the other day, and I'm hoping maybe you'll send her one to try out.    Well happily give you an ensorsement and show you the before and after video of her backing into the den! Allison Hardin ahardin449@yahoo.com
MelF Jul 14, 2011 at 2:20 am
How wonderful to hear that the Thundershirt is helping Buster! I bought one for Daisy nearly two years ago and I have to say I agree with all of your observations. It definitely takes the edge off of Daisy's nervousness. It works great during Thunderstorms and is hit or miss with fireworks. I can never tell why it works sometimes and not others.  What I did notice is that the first time I put it on Daisy she was less jumpy. Almost immediately. She used to be extremely skittish when I was in the backyard with her and Jasper, and would jump at my slightest movement. The first time I put the Thundershirt on her I noticed the difference immediately. I am a big believer and recommended it to all of my clients. It's nie to hear how it is helping buster and as a result, you too!
Marian Jul 14, 2011 at 12:31 am
We have a Thundershirt for our rescued 3 yr. old border collie mix.  Recently she needed 12 stitches (staples) for a wound in her side.  To keep her from pulling on the staples or bothering the area we put her Thundershirt on her & it worked beautifully.  She is all healed now- - - just another use for Thundershirt.     Marian
jennifer A Jul 14, 2011 at 12:04 am
i would love a thundershirt for my dog named Bolt.He is a labrador/dachshund mix and is reactive to other dogs and is scared of fireworks and always hides in the basement on the fourth of july.He is only 2 years old and i would love for his reactivity to stop around other dogs,I have heard great things about the thundershirt and would really love to get one for my dog.I have used a gentle leader for my dog but it isnt the best object to use. I would really love for him to not be reactive to other dogs and i think that the thundershirt will be the best thing to use. boltandbella@yahoo.com
Cathy Jul 13, 2011 at 11:54 pm
Since my two dogs and I were in our home when it burned December 7, 2009 my older of the two dogs has developed a severe fear of thunderstorms.  She panics to the point that she whines and scratches at the door that we escaped from the burning house only to find that if I let her out there she is in the garage and the noise is actually worse.  Human contact does not comfort her in any way shape or form.  Both dogs suffer from asthma now due to the smoke inhaltion as do I.  It was a harrowing day to say the least but my poor Sophie suffers so much as we have thunderstorms where we live weekly and it breaks my heart.  Cathy Schnabel daisey137@gmail.com
Nikkiinu Jul 13, 2011 at 11:28 pm
Our Abby was a traumatized shelter dog, thrown away by her first owners. The shelter was next to a flea market where they set off fireworks every weekend. If that wasn't scary enough, after we rescued her she had to live through the trauma of three major Florida hurricanes in less than two months. Result: she is absolutely terrified of thunder, lightning, any any noise resembling fireworks. One of our neighbors has a strange hobby...setting off fireworks every night during summer. And we get daily summer storms, too. I have heard many good comments about Thundershirts and want to try one on Abby. Local store was out of her size ( she's 65 pounds), so I'm trying to win the giveaway for my best fur-friend.
Tara Jul 13, 2011 at 11:20 pm
i have the typical challenges that many deal with when it comes to thunderstorms and fireworks...many a sleepless nights around here during those times with my old dogs. but the one situation that i am interested in the thundershirt for is some reactive fear based behaviour from two of our recent rescued young pups. they are solid young pups when surrounded by my adult dogs but on their own when on our walks or meeting new/strange dogs they become very reactive and struggle to keep a calm and balanced state of mind, they are not scared in the least bit with thunderstorms (had a massive one last night in which my dogs paniced around the house...and the pups slept soundly?)but. i am considering the thundershirt to see if it could help us in our work to make them both solid canine citizens? i am really interested if it would help keep them calm and focused to help them navigate through new social situations and be less reactive, which in turns equals more potential to find adoptive homes! finding adoptive homes is a challenge for pups that have fear issues so this may be the answer we have been looking for? fingers crossed!  Tara,   tlisabrooks@hotmail.com
Stephanie Jul 13, 2011 at 10:58 pm
A Thundershirt would help my German Shepherd dog I rescued.  She is fearful of any loud sound and some moving objects.  A Thundershirt would help her be able to stay calm in social settings (she does like to travel) and at home.  I would be able to do more and take her more places without worrying that she is going to become flightly or want to hide when she is scared.  This would also help her stay calm so she can play with my other German Shepherd.  With a Thundershirt she can be a dog with out fears and enjoy life with me. Stephanie
Bagpipr Jul 13, 2011 at 10:33 pm
I have a chihuahua/rat terrier mix who we rescued 5 years ago.   For some reason, she is very thunderstorm phobic.   The louder the thunder, the more panicked she gets.   She sits trembling with her ears straight back, pants and runs to hide under the bed.   I have tried EVERYTHING to attempt to calm her nerves but nothing has worked.   I've even tried a calming medication obtained by the vet.   It didn't work.    I feel so badly for her and want to help.   Everything I've read on the Thundershirt has been positive and I'd love to win one!
Faerieann Jul 13, 2011 at 9:48 pm
Fallon, our Lab/Akita mix has been frightened by storms and fireworks for many years now.  As she gets older it seems to be getting worse, as now she begins shaking and panting when it begins to rain.  During regular storms she has been known to seek shelter in the bathtub!  We aren't positive, but we think her fear stems from one fateful Fourth of July when we boarded her at a "reputable" doggy day care.  When we picked her up we were told she had a fear of fireworks because she was left outside "to play" and the fireworks started.  Apparently she was so frantic to get back inside she tore the toenails of her front paws scratching at the door before they could get to her.  Needless to say, we never used them again.  But since then, our poor girl has been traumatised in the summer, to the point of having to take Valium.  I hate doing that to her, and I would very much like to try a Thundershirt as a way to make her more comfortable.  Thank you!!!  faerieann@gmail.com
Sarah Clark Jul 13, 2011 at 9:47 pm
I would love to try the Thundershirt on my 4 1/2 year old American Bulldog Mix rescue dog.  He only has one eye and has difficulty determining if someone/dog is close or far.  He is leash reactive (barking and carrying on) however he has been getting better.  He barks a lot when he is scared.  He isn't scared of thunder or lightening storms, but more so new places and new people.  Bless his heart he shakes uncontrollably on an  outing to PetSmart or the like.  He tries to act "tough" when around his brother and sister especially when meeting new dogs.  He has graduated in the past few months to being allowed to be out of a crate when we are gone, but only in the bedroom and kitchen, not the whole house as it causes him anxiety.  He loves snuggling and always lays right next to us or to his siblings so it sounds like this Thundershirt may be a good "snuggle" for him.  Thanks.  Sarah Clark sjbatc2@yahoo.com  
Chauncey's mama Jul 13, 2011 at 9:37 pm
Why would be grateful for a Thundershirt? Because I am the (proud) owner of a rescued Rat Terrier. That should be self-explanatory, but in case it's not for those unfamiliar with terriers...she's skittish, high strung and afraid of fireworks and other loud noises. We'd prefer an alternative remedy to drugs in situations like these. Thank you for the opportunity to be considered.
Mia's Mom Jul 13, 2011 at 9:32 pm
We saved my puppy Mia from being gassed in AL. She is now our little southern belle but still has some issues from being fostered in a house with twenty other dogs. We recently moved (she needed a bigger yard) and she's having some trouble with going outside, other dogs and people. She has some serious fear issues and usually is trembling in a corner or jumping wildly with anxiety. I would really like to take her to schools and out into the community to show people just how sweet she is and how easy it was (and important) to save her from death. I think the Thundershirt would help calm her down while she's with a bigger group of people. She really likes to hide in small confined spaces because she likes the pressure on her skin, so I really believe this outfit could help her! Thanks! bubblesbrin@yahoo.com
Lisa Zilney Jul 13, 2011 at 9:30 pm
I work as a volunteer for Blind Dog Rescue Alliance and a Thundershirt would be ENORMOUSLY helpful for our foster dogs!!! Many of the pups are afraid of thunder & other loud noises, which is magnified by the fact that they are unable to SEE that everything is okay and nothing can harm them!!! As a rescue group, we are always strapped for cash, and can't afford to buy these for all of our fosters. Even one extra one would be a HUGE help!!!
N_s_casanova Jul 13, 2011 at 8:16 pm
My daughter just moved to Chicago with my grand-dog Hershey. Lindsey is a middle-school teacher so she is gone M-F during the day and she is single, so she is out a couple nights a week as well. She LOVES her dog and is trying ANYTHING to help her get over her seperation anxiety. Hershey is also nervous in areas of loud noise and they will be taking trains and busses to get places. A THUNDERSHIRT will help keep Hershey from becoming so upset when left alone. Nina n_s_casanova@yahoo.com
Larry Towner Jul 13, 2011 at 8:02 pm
A Thundershirt would help my shih tzu during thunder storms when he becomes upset and scared by the noise. He becomes so upset that he runs and hides in a closet or the laundry room. This shirt will also keep him from trying to get us up at night during the storm so he can hide under the covers of the bed. It would also help him when I leave for work in the afternoon and before my wife gets home in the early evening during these thunder storms. I look forward to trying a Thundershirt and seeing the results it will offer to my shih tzu during these storms. Larry Towner   lat0845@gmail.com
Corbin Jul 13, 2011 at 7:48 pm
My mom does a lot of work with dog rescue, and my current foster sister, Oreo, has a lot of anxiety problems... most likely because her family just abandoned her at our house one day and never came back (well, they surrendered her to the rescue and mom fostered her, but Oreo doesn't see it that way).  Mom has been thinking about buying the thundershirt because we've heard from a few blog friends that it really does make a difference.  I'd love to take Oreo up to my lake so I can teach her how to swim, but I'm afraid the hour car ride will totally do her in! -Corbin ps. we also signed up for your newsletter! OhCuteCorbin(AT)Gmail(DOT)com
Stacey Jul 13, 2011 at 6:43 pm
Hello- Stacey here, this is my sad story- My Jack Russell "Peewee" ran off during a terrible storm and it took 3 days for her to find her way home! We were so upset looking everywhere and calling all the shelters. When she finally showed up, it was like the poor thing had a "wired zapped" in her brain. Now she runs off at almost any loud noise; car pops, thunder, fireworks, gun fire(we live on a farm!) and most annoyingly, the nearby Naval Warfare Base test blastings which shake our entire house! Poor Peewee!  We would loooove to try the thundershirt to see if it will help her :) Thank  you for your helpful website too! Stacey Bowling Newburg, MD skbowling414@gmail.com
Kmhofler Jul 13, 2011 at 4:11 pm
I got my beagle-dachshund mix BG off of Craigslist about 2 years ago. I don't know her full past other than she originally came from a shelter in Philly and then to a small apartment in the same city where she was rarely let outside. She has bad separation anxiety, she explodes with cries and jumps all over me when I return home. Because of her anxiety she licks constantly and also has accidents throughout the house when I'm gone. I've tried to crate train her to avoid accidents but she breaks out of crates and hurts herself in the process. Because of her separation anxiety, many carpets have needed replacement in past apartments we've lived in. Aside from that, BG is terrified of fireworks and thunderstorms; she shakes and curls up as close to me as possible during them. She also pulls so hard when walking on a leash that she nearly knocks me down. The instant she sees another dog she barks like crazy and runs to them, which sometimes does not end well. She barks, pulls on the leash, and freaks out until I let her meet the other dog or until it's out of sight. I'm very hopeful that all of these issues I have with BG can be resolved or at least lessened by a Thundershirt. My dog is my everything and it breaks my heart to see her stress out over such silly things. I'm hoping a Thundershirt will allow BG to not lick herself raw, not hurt herself breaking out of crates, stop being so nervous during loud noises, and become a happier, healthier dog. I hate to leave her home alone when I am at work in fear that she will hurt herself.  Thank you for this opportunity. -Kim (kmhofler@gmail.com)
Amy@GoPetFriendly Jul 13, 2011 at 2:44 pm
Thanks for linking Peggy!
Learning From First Pet Friendly Roadtrip Jul 13, 2011 at 10:02 am
[...] forget to enter our contest to win a [...]
Carynjo Jul 13, 2011 at 4:16 am
A friend just recommended this to me, so I immediately googled it. It looks like it would work for my Australian Shepard mix who has just started peeing and pooping inside the house as a result of anxiety from thunder and lightening storms. She has never liked fireworks, but after 11 years this is the first summer storm season we've experienced with her freaking out. We love her and want to be able to have her be her calm, lovable normal self during a storm.
Peggy Frezon Jul 13, 2011 at 2:59 am
Kelly is anxious during storms and fireworks. She is also anxious meeting other dogs. I'd love to see if the Thundershirt could help her in those instances. I'm sure this product could help so many dogs, I'm going to link to your contest and let everyone know on my Wednesday Pet Roundup tomorrow!
Two Grads Jul 13, 2011 at 2:44 am
The Thundershirt could help our pup when she gets scared of being alone too long.  She tends to eat her blanket - her favorite thing in the world! twogradstudentsandapittie@gmail.com
hornblower Jul 12, 2011 at 6:48 pm
One of my dogs is scared of thunder & gunshots/fireworks - I've been wanting to try this product to help him. & hey - I just subscribed to your newsletter too!
Sara Niffenegger Jul 12, 2011 at 6:35 pm
A thundershirt would be great for my dog raster he can be very skiddish and jumpy sometimes while very outgoing others. He has no excuses for this he is just very insecure. sara (at) theniffs (dot) com
Sara Niffenegger Jul 12, 2011 at 6:35 pm
i am subscribed to your newsletter! sara (at) theniffs (dot) com
Amy@GoPetFriendly Jul 12, 2011 at 4:41 pm
Hi Sonia! Great question. The fabric is between the weight of a t-shirt and a sweat shirt. Phoenix is hot during the summer even when your naked, so I don't know if I'd take a chance adding a layer during this time of the year. It's not as hot where we are, but it's still warm and Buster is wearing his out for walks. However, because his fur is black the gray Thundershirt actually seems to be helping him - keeping the sun from hitting his fur and heating him up.
Sonia, big dog blogger Jul 12, 2011 at 4:28 pm
Great to hear it's worked so well for Buster!  I'm getting one soon and am hopeful it will help with anxiety.  But I have a question for you... How heavy is the shirt?  As you know, it's pretty hot in Phoenix right now.  Is it something that you think would work in all weather or is it too heavy for summer?
Adrienne Scott Gilbreath Jul 12, 2011 at 2:21 pm
The Thunder Shirt would be a godsend in our house.  I've been thinking of trying one for a while, but haven't wanted to foot the money for it, in case it didn't work.  Our three-year-old golden retriever is very reactive to noises, especially fireworks and thunder.  She barks at every little thing when either is going on, and glues herself to either my husband or myself, because she is so scared.  Last week, during the Fourth, she refused to even go outside to potty at night, just holding it.  I'm afraid a recurrence of that behavior will lead to UTI's. Also, when Lucy, the golden retriever reacts, her sister Dory, our two-year-old golden/ lab mix will start barking and reacting as well, because Lucy is the Alpha girl.  Dory always follows Lucy's lead. The Thundershirt could help keep Lucy calmer, thus leaving our house much calmer.
Dbwluna Jul 12, 2011 at 1:54 pm
The Thundershirt helped out our little dachshund when riding in a car, along with crate training.  She is a rescue, and was scared to death of her crate.  Since using the Thundershirt, so is no longer scared to sleep in her crate, and now finds it very safe.
Lauren F Jul 12, 2011 at 1:27 pm
hi all, we rescued our dog, desmond, about three months ago. before he went to the shelter where we got him, he was pulled out of a home by animal control--he was raised by hoarders who kept him in a cage/crate most of the time. his back legs and tail have developed poorly because of this, though he is not in any pain today. he's 16-months-old now, and is still getting over his fears and anxiety with being contained in any way, in any amount of space--large or small. he hates crates/gates/bars of any kind and has quite a bit of separation anxiety. unfortunately, we both work and are gone for long periods of time during the day. we cannot afford doggie day care. we believe a thundershirt would help him feel more secure while we're gone, but he is hard to size things for, as he's a greyhound/pit bull mix, so he's stocky in the front and skinny skinny skinny in the back. this is why we've been hesitant to try one, knowing that fit is so important. we would love the chance to try one and see if it will make him less upset about our absence. thank you!
Kim Clune Jul 12, 2011 at 1:24 pm
Emmett's Thundershirt has made a tremendous difference in his life. We've been putting it on him when times are good and when things went horribly wrong (our neighbor set off some heavy duty fireworks) he lay sleeping in his bed. I put it on again when our (bleeping) neighbors were shooting rifles for target practice illegally close to the house and he actually turned his back to me, sat in my lap on the floor, and sat in the most calm demeanor I've ever seen from this crazy, hyperactive hound. I'm so grateful!!  I'd just like one size smaller for Emmett since he was on the size cusp and the one I ordered has some extra bulk. I would donate his barely worn Thundershirt to a local rescue.
Staci Jul 12, 2011 at 5:17 am
I hadn't heard of this product until go pet friendly's facebook post. I first thought this would be great for my new puppy Ranger. Then I went on the website and read about this wonderful product. After reading the website I realized I need one of these for both of our dogs. Our 1.5 year old German Shepherd/Golden had parvo when he was a puppy so he had to be quarantined at our house until he was older. However, this lack of socialism has caused him to be scared of strangers and he will act like he is interested in a human and then when they go to pet him he pulls back and growls and barks at them. We have a behaviorist involved and now strangers can give him treats but still not pet him, I think with this product we maybe able to get him closer to allowing people to pet him. Ranger, 6 months Catahoula Leopard Dog/Stumpy Tailed Cattle Dog, had a hard life too before coming home with us he was found as a stray and then transferred from New Mexico to Colorado. Somewhere along the way he got separation anxiety and we are unable to crate him without him drooling severely, digging and causing injury to himself. He has formed such a strong bond with Rusty in only 2 months. Unfortunately we got in a car accident a couple weeks after we brought our new puppy home and weren't able to expose him to as many situations as we were hoping to by now. Whenever he goes on a walk without Rusty he is nervous about every sound around us. With the trainer she is unable to work with us on training until he is exposed to more things without Rusty and can focus on training.  and Everything is distracting and scary for Ranger but skateboards are his "tip of the iceberg." We hope with the help of the shirt Ranger can get some more healthy exposure to things without Rusty around and be able to focus his attention to training. We really hope we win one, can't wait.
Ashley Jul 12, 2011 at 5:15 am
My 120 pound great dane is scared of other dogs! I can't walk her anymore anywhere near where other dogs will be. I can't afford more obedience school right now, so I've been looking into training aids like the thundershirt for help. 
Ruby's Raiser Jul 12, 2011 at 3:35 am
He looks so handsome in his Thundershirt! Glad to hear it's helping him relax in stressful situations. :)
Suebeebuzz Jul 12, 2011 at 3:26 am
i forgot to mention i love my coonhound so much i just took on a foster coonhound who also has aniety issues, he was kept in a shelter and not let out for a period of time they only put in food and hosed it out.. he too i think needs a thunder shirt.. i think its going to help him..right now he can not be put in a crate, if you try the poo runs out the back of him, he shakes and cries.. and pees.. he is just a ball of nerves.. he also just doesnt want to be alone now that he has found humans that are actually nice to him.. well we had our first thunder storm and found out why this pretty coonhound boy was in the shelter, he is scared to death of thunder and lould noises.. gun shy,,to most hunter, as good as gone.. he toowas in a high hill shellter with not much time left but he is out now with the rest of his life to live.. i think he will be doing at leat the first part in a thunder shirt!
Suebeebuzz Jul 12, 2011 at 3:11 am
i work with animal rescue, i would with two differnt rescue groups.. and this is what i often type when people who have tried regular tshirts or have mention aniexiety or even agression with new dogs: Have you tried the thundershirts? they have presure points in all the right places.. its amazing.. i would of never believed it.. ive seen them help a dog that was an agression problem, seems that fear was the base of his agression and no one knew and ive seen a poodle that used to bark constant it was her life.. go to where she is now a lap dog and can be confident enough to walk around her home without barking.. not to mention storms, fire works, lould noises and one dog that was just in pain due to the weathers air pressure changes  also helped.. if a tshirt helped i can only imagine how much an actually thunder shirt would..  you would think i worked for them! lol. id say a few months ago all i could think of was how could they possible work? then they got a few for our local rescue group..  Ive tried one on my coonhound who has problems because of gunshot in both his ears and his face, who knows where else, thunderstorms make him think of being shot i believe..Ive not had him a year yet, he was a rescue from death row in WV who i took to foster but fell in love with..he is a older guy..thunder makes him turn into a 80lb baby who just needs to be comforted..A good Friend loaned us one to try and its just what he needed.. he slept through the worst storms ever.. no bad dreams of what ever may of happened to my guy.. and he never woke up during the storm.. Thundershirts you are amazing.. Im sure you are saving lives of dogs that would end up in shelters.. i know you are helping shelters save lives of ones we are being able to help find homes for. Thank you from the bottom of my heart!  Susan..
cstironkat Jul 12, 2011 at 2:50 am
Kouga is a rescue who has made alot of progress to but thunderstorms are a huge problem. He shakes so bad and I would like to try the thundershirt to see if it would help. Thank you for the chance to win.
Charlene Jul 12, 2011 at 2:33 am
My dog Sunny, we got about a year and a  half ago from the Humane Society of Weld County CO.  She is a medium size dog, during storms she will crawl in her little brothers crate, he is a pom.  She use to run away when we would open the pop bottles.  She has improved some with the use of the sound machine and natural chamomile tablets.
Jody L. Jul 12, 2011 at 1:32 am
My dog Tia is a sweet tempered soft-coated wheaten terrier who is petrified by thunderstorms.  She shakes and pants violently, has to wear a diaper because she always has accidents when it thunders and even has a prescription for Valium(which does not help her). We feel so helpless and feel so sad for her!! She can't find a place for herself during a storm.  She walks backwards, crawls into closets and sometimes even squeezes herself behind furniture trying to find a comfortable place but that never happens.  She just paces and pants and we feel so bad for her because we can't help her.  I just heard of the Thundershirt and am hoping & praying that it could be the solution for her.  Thanks !!  
Veronique Dubois Jul 12, 2011 at 1:05 am
My mini-schnauzer Zoe has become quite anxious because of renovations different neighbors have been at for the last 3 years. First it was the next door neighbor for a whole summer (he basically ripped out the interior of his house... long and very, very noisy). Then it was the back neighbor who is redoing his whole house, with an additional floor, new terrace, plus digging, filling, etc... This work has been going on for more than a year now, day in and day out, including some weekends! The noise of drills hammers, trucks, etc... is practically continuous and we cannot diminish it by closing the kitchen door to prevent our dog from hearing a lot of this aggravating noise (we find it aggravating! Imagine a mini-schnauzer!) So my poor Zoe has been getting more and more anxious for the last 3 years... She barks more than ever and becomes restless...  We try to limit the number of rooms she can go to, but with summer and heat, it just seems terrible to confine her in one room... And of course there are thunderstorms which she didn't use to mind before... the noise. It would be fantastic to calm her anxiety with a Thundershirt... It is soooo hard to see her this anxious... Thanks! 
Janell B Jul 12, 2011 at 12:56 am
I use a Thundershirt all the time with the different rat terrier foster dogs that come through my house that have anxiety issues.  It takes things down a notch so I am able to work on desensitizing them to the situations/things that are causing them such anxiety (such as car rides, the sound of a vacuum, bicycles...)  While the size small I own fits many of my foster dogs, I could really use an XS since most of the rat terriers that I foster are too small for the one that I have.  Thanks!  Janell with New Rattitude Rat Terrier Rescue
Mizbez Jul 11, 2011 at 11:42 pm
Wow, what a great idea! In the last year or so my dog has had serious anxiety issues in situations that never bothered her before. Thunderstorms and car rides are the main offenders, and thank goodness July 4th only comes 1x/year. Her issues are bad enough that my vet prescribed Xanax for the really bad days. I even canceled a recent trip to visit friends b/c the 3 hour car ride would be too hard on her-even if medicated. Thundershirt sounds like a great alternative! Thanks!
Katrina Troy Jul 11, 2011 at 10:04 pm
I have a 73 pound bull mastiff/lab mix that is an amazing dog except when it comes to storms. She is wreck and it turn wrecks the house. Now that I am pregnant it is even harder to contain her. Love her to pieces but we are getting desperate and I would love to try it out!
Amynissl Jul 11, 2011 at 7:36 pm
My newest family member is an American Staffordshire Terrier. It's not really known how long he spent living his life on a chain with little to no interaction. But it was early in his life, and he is completely terrified of strange dogs and new things. Anything new or anything that would be deemed more than going out in the backyard often results in a meltdown. And at 70lbs of pure muscle and strength, even a harness and martingale collar are hardly enough to keep him from bolting. We can't even go for walks because other dogs cause him so much anxiety. It took about 3 months of a slow introduction to my female pit bull mix before he could be trusted to not have a meltdown over something. He becomes anxious over new guests, new dogs, and loud noises. Rather than drugging him, we just stick to plenty of ball chasing and running in the backyard away from any stressors. I hope that a Thundershirt could at least calm him enough to respond to commands so that we can leave the house and walk the neighborhood!
RAINY-59 Jul 11, 2011 at 7:33 pm
LUCY LOU, OUR STRATSHIRE TERRIER IS THE CALMEST, MOST LOVEABLE DOG UNTIL...AND I MEAN UNTIL  1.  THUNDERSTORMS  2. GUN FIRE (LIVING IN THE MOUNTAINS SOMEONE IS ALWAYS SHOOTING A GUN AT SOME POOR AMINAL) AND 3. FIREWORKS. AT THE FIRST RUMBLE OF A THUNDER STORM SHE STARTS TO SHAKE..THERE IS NO CALMING HER DOWN.  THIS FOURTH OF JULY I TRIED GIVING HER BENEDRIL (RECOMMENDED BY A FRIEND WITH DOGS) THIS DID NOTHING FOR HER.  I HATE TO SEE THE HOLIDAY COME AROUND AS SHE IS SUCH S PITTIFUL SITE TO SEE.  I'M AFFRAID SHE IS GOING TO HAVE A HEART ATTACH AS SHE IS TREMBELING SO MUCH.  I THINK AND HOPE THE THUNDERSHIRT WILL HELP HER, AND ME AS MY ANXIOUTY LEVEL GOES UP JUST BEING WITH HER.  I DON'T WANT TO HAVE TO PUT HER ON TRANQUILAZIRS AS THE VET SUGGESTED.  PLEASE HELP MY POOR LUCY LOU. 
Brneyegirl419 Jul 11, 2011 at 7:20 pm
My 1 year old basset would benefit greatly from this I believe. She hates storms and fireworks. She even gets upset with loud cars and motorcycles.
Kayte L Jul 11, 2011 at 7:06 pm
my dog maggie is anxious getting in and out of my condo building. the stairwell seems to amp her up (too many run-ins with offleash dogs... even though there's a leash law in my strata), and the elevator isn't much better. a thundershirt might help!
Sadiesmom Jul 11, 2011 at 6:48 pm
My 3 year old german shorthair has some mild separation anxiety requiring kenneling when we leave but also a fear of human noises.  Thunderstorms are the worst--pacing, panting, shaking.  She's also afraid of little dogs, okay, their high pitched barks.  I think a thundershirt will help calm her storm anxiety and hopefully some of her other anxieties.  She's come a long way since we rescued her and would hate to see her decline during the summer storm season.  I am encouraged to try the thundershirt from your story and other reviews I have read.  Jodi 
Ldysmilesalot Jul 11, 2011 at 5:57 pm
Our 5 year australian shepard is afraid of loud noises and thunderstorms. He gets very anxious with loud noises ... in fact this july 4th he was a nervous wreck for about 6 days .  Every little noise he would crouch down, run and hide or climb into our laps... Being 95 pounds he is no lap dog LOL.  It seems like it gets worse every year .  I think the thundershirt would probably be a blessing for him as well as us.  Thank you for telling your story about the thundershirt.  If we dont win it might be a item we pick up later. Thanks again..  Nancy
Mary Hone Jul 11, 2011 at 5:30 pm
I really want to get one of these for Torrey. She is afraid of loud noises, and has a really hard time in large groups of people. I'm not sure why she has a hard time with crowds of people, we have taken her everywhere since she was a small pup. I think the Aussie breed struggles with noises more than others. This is my second Aussie that hates loud noises.
bonny Jul 11, 2011 at 4:58 pm
before our once in a lifetime 6.0 earthquake10 miles from my house in northeastern nevada in 2008,my sweet whippet was never botherd by anything even front row at a joan jett and the blackhearts concert didnt bother him,now just a car going by the house makes him shake.being that his adopted skin brother is a bass player i would like to get a thundershirt for him so we can go to concerts again.
Erica_426 Jul 11, 2011 at 4:56 pm
We could absolutely use a Thunder Shirt for our rescue Doberman, Porscha.  She is terrified of thunderstorms! She shakes uncontrollably, pants, drools, paces and most importantly, she claws at the walls of our brand new house! After every storm my husband has to patch the walls and re-paint.........She keeps us up all night and since she is not allowed in our bed, I end up sleeping on the floor in her dog bed with her lol I am 8 months pregnant so needless to say, its very uncomfortable for me :) She also "screams" when on car rides and after reading this blog, I think it may help with that too!! We have one baby and now another one will be here in a few weeks, so I would love to have one less sleep disruption thanks to the Thundershirt!!! :)
nerak Jul 11, 2011 at 4:49 pm
I tried one with my dog who is extremely anxious during thunderstorms, in addition to medication and behavioral therapy. Nothing is helping, and I really feel sad and desperate.
Bree Griffith Jul 11, 2011 at 4:22 pm
I need one of these for my Zozabella. She is hiding in the basement right now even though the storm ended 20 minutes ago. I can't coax her out. She wears a tight t-shirt as an improvised thundershirt but it only helps a little. At 100 pounds, I can't cradle and rock her like she wants. I would love to win one for her!
Morgan Jul 11, 2011 at 3:57 pm
morgan@greensboropaws.com  I just found out about Thundershirts only a week ago, and have wanted to try it out on my 6 year old Westie, Sophie.  She is terrified of thunderstorms - she shakes and has to be as close to you as possible, if not on your lap or on/behind your head.  She also has a tendency to be dog aggressive.  I'm not sure if its out of fear, but she has been known to flip out, snarl, growl, bark, and flail around if we encounter another dog on our walks.  I wonder if the Thundershirt might help her to calm down a bit more and help with her social skills. 
Sanakite Jul 11, 2011 at 3:46 pm
sanakite@gmail.com  I would love to win a Thundershirt for my 1 1/2 year old Dobe mix Ziva. She has anxiety around loud sound, she barks when the neighbors come and go, or if we are in the car and a person gets to close while we are stopped or a motorcycle is near. What worries me most is that during walks she is so overwhelmed with her surroundings that she pulls like crazy and will barely focus on me or my husband. She will respond to stop or sit, but if something spooks her she tries to run in a panic and it's extremely difficult to calm her down. We work with her daily, take her to dog classes, and walk her in all kinds of different locations. She has made some excellent improvements over the past year. Ziva is also people shy, which saddens me because she is such pretty dog and everyone who sees her wants to pet her, but I especially hate seeing the look of disappointed on kids faces when I have to say no. I believe the Thundershirt will help us to help her be a calmer and happier dog, and to help her be that friendly dog that I know she is.  Thank you!       Bonnie and Ziva
Katherine Page Jul 11, 2011 at 3:44 pm
Adama, my new little rescue Boston, could benefit from a Thundershirt on walks. He's a model citizen off-leash, but when he's on-leash, he can be overly aware and on guard when it comes to anything that moves--dogs, cats, birds, bugs, deer, small squeaky children, bikes, joggers, motorcycles, etc. He lunges and tries to chase. Just that added comfort would help him calm down on walks.
Nichole Beaver Jul 11, 2011 at 3:32 pm
I think my dog, Doodle, could benefit from having a Thundershirt on while in the car. I love to take road trips, but haven't gone very far in the past year because Doodle gets herself so worked up in the car that she gets physically sick. She sits fine in her doggie car seat, but just can't calm down while in the car. Thank you for sponsoring a giveaway! beav1279 (at) gmail (dot) com
Dawn Smith Jul 11, 2011 at 3:31 pm
I desperately would like to win the thundershirt for my boxer, Zoey. She is a fantastic dog, but she has a ton of anxiety issues. Being a large dog she needs to go on lots of walks and get lots of attention, but her anxiety gets in the way of that. She is scared when the cars engines are too loud, when someone closes a car door nearby, or when a random animals runs close by. She just gets so nervous that she tries to pull my arm out of the socket to get away! It is really difficult to take her on the walks she needs due to these anxiety issues, I'm afraid of her getting loose and hurting herself by running into traffic or hurt me by pulling too hard. She is also scared of thunder, fireworks and any other loud noises and we have not been able to find her any other form of relief. She is a great girl, just a big scared one! I recently was laid off from my job, so while the Thundershirt is a great deal price wise, it just is not in my budget at the moment.
Bonnie Ellefson Jul 11, 2011 at 3:30 pm
I would love to be able to win one for my rescued Pit Bull Java..I believe when he was a puppy he was probably left outside most of his life in bad weather. He's scared of rain and thunderstorms, fireworks and even someone working on their roof hammering... to the point I think he'll have a heart attack (which stresses me out just watching this poor thing) pant and pace and try to get into things to hide. If I'd win and this really helps him the whole family will be eternally grateful not to have to see him go through this every couple days. Especially in SC during the summer where it will thunder every afternoon at times even with no rain...Thanks and GOOD LUCK to everyone...
Reading_person111 Jul 11, 2011 at 3:22 pm
reading_person111@yahoo.com I would like to win a Thundershirt for my mom's dog, Honey. Last time I "puppysat" there was a huge thunderstorm. Honey shook, fell on the floor, and started drooling. I covered her in a blanket but she was still very upset. If I don't win a free one I will probably buy her one for Christmas!
Melissa Jul 11, 2011 at 3:19 pm
I have a 3 year old Jack Russell/Rat Terrier mix who also abandoned in his first year of life.  He suffers from sever separation anxiety - howling if he is left alone and completely freaks out if he is in a cage.   We couldn't even run to the store!  The owner of our Doggie Daycare suggested Thundershirt to us and I figured why not give it a shot.  It was night and day, with some quick training our pup was calm and composed when we left him alone.  It was a lifesaver!
Two Pitties in the City Jul 11, 2011 at 3:17 pm
Our Mr. B can get a bit anxious, and we've always been curious to see whether a Thundershirt could help him, especially through Thunderstorms.
dede mcelroy Jul 11, 2011 at 3:14 pm
I recently adopted a 3 month old puppy, she is scared to death of her own back yard!  She's afraid of the noises the kitchen floor makes and is also scared to death of her sister's barking!  I'm having a devil of a time potty training as she is afraid to be outside in the yard.  I'd love to try the thunfershirt to see if it would make a difference!
Scoop Jul 11, 2011 at 3:14 pm
Thanks for running this review!  We will definitely be trying this for our general state of high anxiety/excitement when there is company in the house.  But, a fee one would be awesome too!  Sign us up! scoop@dailydogscoop.com 
Beth Jul 11, 2011 at 3:13 pm
Patches is our 14 year old Jack Russell. When a storm moves in I have to wrap her in a blanket she gets so scared. Has been this way since I brought her home at 8 weeks.The breeder that gave her to me had all the dogs in a barn and in cages. I watch the weather to make sure no storms are coming so i can be home for her. I have been out when storms moves in and when I get home she is hiding. Hope to win a thuder shirt and maybe I can go to town and know she will be ok. Beth
Roxanne Hawn Jul 11, 2011 at 3:11 pm
We have tried homemade versions in the past without much luck. I would love to give a real one a try on Miss Lilly, who as you know pretty much came out of the womb anxious and worried. You have my email address already, kids.
Jennifer Jul 11, 2011 at 3:06 pm
I recently adopted two beagle mixes and the younger one, Hallie, is a bit of a spaz.  We don't really know much about her past but she's definitely high-strung at home.  She loves to attack (play fight) her sister, barks at any and all delivery vehicles and whines incessantly during car rides.  I've been considering a Thundershirt for a while and I think winning one would be wonderful! Jennifer King x_rayvision2002@yahoo.com

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