Storm Anxiety in Pets: How We Help

A frightened dog cowers as lightning illuminates a stormy night, with rain pouring down.

Lightning forks across the sky over downtown Gilbert during a monsoon storm. The late summer monsoon season in Arizona is both awe-inspiring and nerve-wracking. In the East Valley areas of Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and southwest Mesa, sudden storms bring torrents of rain, dazzling lightning, booming thunder, and even walls of dust. These storms can pop up with little warning on hot August afternoons, turning calm skies into intense downpours within minutes. For local pet owners and homeowners, monsoon storms pose unique challenges – from scared pets cowering from thunder to fallen trees and flooded yards – especially if you’re away from home when wild weather strikes.

In this post, we’ll address common monsoon-season issues like storm anxiety in pets, the risk of trees falling, power outages, water system malfunctions, and pool flooding, and how to prepare for them. Most importantly, we’ll explain how TLC Pet & House Sitting has your back during these summer storms. With a friendly, knowledgeable approach, we want to reassure you that both your furry friends and your home can stay safe through the monsoons – even if you’re on vacation or at work when the clouds burst. Let’s dive into what to expect and how to plan for Arizona’s stormy season.

Monsoon Season in Phoenix: What to Expect

A massive dust storm (haboob) rolling across Phoenix during monsoon season. Arizona’s monsoon season runs from mid-June through September, with July and August being peak storm months. During this time, the Phoenix metro area experiences extreme weather patterns nearly every week. If you’ve lived in Tempe or Chandler for a summer, you know the pattern: scorching sunny days build up intense afternoon heat, then sudden thunderstorms explode in the late day or evening. Monsoon storms are known for their high winds (often 30–60+ mph), blinding dust storms (haboobs), heavy rain, vivid lightning, and rolling thunder. Some storms remain mild, while others hit hard in isolated pockets – one neighborhood in Gilbert might get flooding rain while Mesa stays dry.

A massive dust storm looms over a busy highway in Mesa, Arizona, casting an orange hue across the landscape as it approaches during dusk.

The impacts of these storms can be severe. Powerful microburst winds can topple trees and power lines – in fact, winds near 60 mph have snapped tree trunks and even bent metal structures in Gilbert storms. Blinding dust walls can reduce visibility to zero and leave a thick layer of dirt on everything. Intense cloudbursts may drop several inches of rain in an hour, causing street flooding and pooling water around homes. With over 100,000 lightning strikes recorded in a single big storm, power outages are common as electrical lines are hit and transformers blown. Homeowners wake up to debris-strewn yards, downed branches, and muddy pools. It’s no wonder monsoon season has its own “Arizona Monsoon Awareness” campaigns each year – these storms are serious business.

Common Monsoon Risks for Pets and Homes

Monsoon storms bring a host of worries for pet owners and homeowners. Here are some of the most common concerns during Arizona’s summer storm season:

• Frightened Pets (Storm Anxiety): The crash of thunder and flash of lightning can terrify our pets. Many dogs and cats have storm phobia – one of the most common anxieties in pets – and may panic, whine, hide, soil the house or even destroy items when a storm hits. Pets left alone during storms can be at risk of injuring themselves or escaping in fear. (We’ll talk more about storm anxiety – and how to soothe it – in a moment.)

• Falling Trees & Wind Damage: Monsoon winds can turn patio umbrellas, lawn furniture, and even trampolines into projectiles. Strong gusts routinely knock down large tree limbs or entire trees onto yards and roofs. In our East Valley communities, we’ve seen fences blown over and debris littering the streets after a big storm. If a tree falls or a window breaks when you’re not home, the damage could go unchecked for days.

A tree lies across the street after being uprooted by a powerful microburst during a thunderstorm.

• Flash Flooding & Water Leaks: Sudden downpours can overwhelm yard drainage and gutters. Water might seep under doors or flood low-lying areas of your property. In heavy rains, even municipal systems can struggle – drains and sewers may back up, causing sinks or toilets to overflow indoors. A minor roof leak can turn into a ceiling collapse if rain continues and no one’s there to catch it.

• Power Outages and AC Loss: Monsoon lightning and wind frequently lead to localized power outages. Losing power in the summer heat isn’t just an inconvenience; it means your air conditioning and cooling systems shut off. Indoor temperatures can spike quickly, which is dangerous for pets stuck inside. An outage also knocks out lights, alarm systems, and could reset timers (for sprinklers, fish tanks, etc.). If no one is around to restore settings or ensure pets stay cool, it’s a major concern.

• Pool Flooding & Debris: Pools are another victim of monsoon mayhem. A violent storm can dump loads of mud, leaves, and branches into your swimming pool, clogging filters and turning the water green. Heavy rain may even cause the pool to overflow. High winds and dust storms wreak havoc on pools and pool equipment. If the pool pump gets clogged or damaged during a storm, it could fail or burn out. Without someone to skim out debris and check the system, a pool can go from blue to mucky very fast.

All these issues are even more stressful if you’re away from home when they occur. It’s hard to enjoy a summer vacation or even concentrate at work during a monsoon if you’re worried about what’s happening back at the house. Next, we’ll focus on that first (and furriest) concern – our pets’ storm anxiety – and then discuss how to prepare your home before storms strike.

Storm Anxiety in Pets – Causes and How to Calm Them

Does your dog start trembling as dark clouds roll in? Do your cats dive under the bed at the first boom of thunder? Storm anxiety in pets is very common, and there are real scientific reasons behind it. According to the Arizona Humane Society, pets’ sensitivity to storms can be triggered by changes in barometric pressure and static electricity in the air. They might be spooked by the visual chaos of lightning flashes or swirling debris, as well as the loud noises of wind, rain, and thunder. In other words, a monsoon engages all of a pet’s senses in frightening ways. It’s no surprise many pets develop a deep fear of storms.

How do you know if your pet has storm anxiety? Some signs include trembling, panting, clinginess, whining or barking, hiding in tight spaces, pacing, or even uncontrollable indoor “accidents” and destructive behavior. Every pet shows fear differently – one dog might cower quietly in a closet, while another might chew up a door frame or try to escape a yard. It’s heartbreaking as an owner to see your beloved fur baby in such distress.

What can you do to help a pet weather the storm? The key is to create a sense of safety and calm that carries them through the noise and flashes. Here are a few veterinarian and expert-recommended strategies:

• Provide a Safe Haven: Set up a comfortable, secure spot in your home where your pet can retreat during a storm. This might be a quiet interior room or a familiar crate with their favorite bedding. Make sure they have access to water and perhaps a toy or treat there. Many pets feel safer in small den-like spaces when anxious.

• Try to Drown Out the Noise: Distract from the howling wind by turning on a TV, radio, or white noise machine. Soft music or ambient sound can help mask the thunder. Closing windows, curtains, and doors can also muffle the storm and block out lightning flashes.

• Stay Calm and Offer Comfort: Pets take cues from our behavior. If you’re at home, remain relaxed and speak to them in a soothing voice. Never punish your pet for being afraid or for any misbehavior stemming from anxiety – that will only add to their stress. Instead, offer praise or gentle petting when they stay calm. During the worst of the storm, you might sit with them in their safe spot to provide reassurance.

• Positive Reinforcement: Some trainers suggest using treats and toys during storms so pets start associating the scary noise with good things. For example, keep special high-value treats (like peanut butter or favorite snacks) that you only give during thunderstorms. This can gradually help reduce their fear response by creating positive associations.

• Anxiety Aids: Consider tools like a Thundershirt (a snug calming wrap for dogs or cats) or calming pheromone diffusers. Many pet owners find that these products noticeably soothe an anxious animal. For extreme cases, talk to your veterinarian – they might recommend short-term anti-anxiety medication or natural supplements for use during storm season.

• Exercise Before Storms: If you know storms tend to hit in the late afternoon (as they often do in Phoenix summers), try to give your dog a good walk or play session earlier in the day. Tiring them out with exercise can take the edge off anxiety and make them more likely to rest despite the weather.

One of the hardest parts of storm anxiety is when storms strike and you aren’t home. Your pet is left to cope alone, which can amplify their fear. This is where having a trusted pet sitter or family member check on them can make a world of difference. A caring pet sitter can comfort your pet, administer any remedies (like putting on a Thundershirt or giving a vet-approved calming treat), and ensure they don’t hurt themselves or destroy property in panic. At TLC Pet & House Sitting, keeping pets calm and safe during storms is a top priority – we treat every pet like our own family, with patience and TLC. Next, we’ll go over how to prep your home before the storm, and then exactly how our team steps in to help when you’re away.

Tips for Preparing Your Home and Pets Before a Monsoon

You can’t control the weather, but a little preparation goes a long way to protect your home and pets from monsoon troubles. Here are some smart steps to take before those dark clouds roll in:

1. Trim Trees and Secure Yard Items: Cut back any dead or overhanging tree branches near your house – high winds can snap branches like toothpicks. Secure or bring inside anything that could become a projectile, such as patio furniture, umbrellas, grills, and potted plants. Don’t forget to take down shade sails or canopy tents; monsoon gusts will send them flying.

2. Clear Gutters and Drains: Make sure your rain gutters are clear of leaves and debris so they can channel water properly. Check yard drains and street gutters in front of your home as well. Clogged drains contribute to pooling water and flooding. If your area has flood-prone intersections, avoid parking cars there during storm forecasts.

3. Check Your Roof and Windows: Inspect for any loose shingles or minor leaks and fix them proactively. Ensure windows can fully close and have proper seals. You might keep some towels or sandbags handy if certain doorways are known to let water in during heavy rain.

4. Secure Fences & Gates: Walk your fence line to look for loose panels or weak spots a dog could bust through if terrified. Lock all gates. A panicked dog might otherwise find or force a way out. Many pets go missing after storms because they flee in fear when thunder hits, even from yards they’ve never escaped before. Double-check that your yard is escape-proof.

5. Update Pet IDs and Microchips: In case your pet does get out, you want them returned quickly. Make sure your dog or cat’s collar tags are up-to-date with your current phone number. It’s also wise to microchip your pets (and verify your contact info is correct in the registry). During monsoons there’s often an increase in lost pets turning up at shelters due to storm escapes, so this step is critical.

6. Prepare a Safe Indoor Space: As mentioned earlier, have a designated storm-safe area in your home. Before leaving the house, set it up for your pet – for example, leave a closet door or interior room open with their bed inside, or make sure their crate is accessible with a toy. Drawing curtains and pre-emptively playing soft music can set a calming tone before the chaos starts.

7. Have Emergency Supplies Ready: Keep a basic emergency kit in case a storm knocks out power or causes damage. Include flashlights (with fresh batteries), a first aid kit, bottled water, and some easy cleanup tools like towels or a wet/dry vacuum. If you have a sump pump or backflow valve, ensure it’s functioning. It’s also smart to know where your utility shut-offs are (water, electricity) and give that info to anyone who may house-sit for you.

8. Protect Your Pool: If you have a pool, check that the water drainage around it is clear. Remove lightweight pool toys, inflatables, and cleaning tools from the water and deck – they can clog the skimmer or fly out in a storm. Some homeowners temporarily turn off the pool pump during the peak of a dust storm to prevent damage, then clean and restart it after. Keep pool chemicals on hand so you can rebalance the water quickly if it gets dirty; heavy rain and dust can wreak havoc on pool water quality.

9. Plan for Pet Care if You’re Away: Finally, if you know you’ll be out of town or even just gone long hours, arrange for someone to watch over your home and pets. This could be a trusted neighbor or a professional service (more on that next!). Give them a heads-up about monsoon forecasts and any specific instructions (like “If the power goes out, check that the A/C kicks back on” or “If there’s a leak by the back door, put down towels”). A little orientation can save a lot of trouble later.

By taking these precautions, you’ll greatly reduce the chances of coming home to an unpleasant surprise after a monsoon storm. But even with all the prep in the world, unexpected things can still happen – that’s where having TLC Pet & House Sitting looking after your home can make all the difference.

A dramatic lightning storm illuminates the night sky over a suburban neighborhood in Gilbert, AZ, casting an electrifying glow on the homes below.

How TLC Pet & House Sitting Helps During Monsoons

Summer is a busy travel season, and many Phoenix-area residents leave town just as monsoon storms peak. Who’s watching your home and furry friends while you’re away? TLC Pet & House Sitting is here to give you total peace of mind. We don’t just feed your pets and water your plants – we become your eyes, ears, and caring hands on the ground when storms strike. Here are some ways we help East Valley homeowners weather the monsoon season safely:

• Experienced Pet Sitters: Our pet sitters are well acquainted with Arizona’s monsoon tantrums. If a storm is brewing, we’ll make sure your pets are safely indoors (if they’re not already) and we’ll comfort them through the thunder and lightning. We know the calming techniques that help – whether it’s distracting a dog with playtime and treats or snuggling a cat in a quiet room. You’ll receive updates and pictures of your pet looking calm and cozy, so you won’t be left worrying. We treat your pets with the same love and patience we do our own, keeping them stress-free during noisy storms.

• Thorough House Checks: When monsoon clouds burst, our house sitters spring into action. We do a full walk-around inspection of your property to spot any damage. Did a tree limb fall or a fence panel blow loose? We’ll find it. We check for leaks or flooding in all the usual spots – around doors, windows, and ceilings. If we discover a problem, we’ll notify you immediately and can coordinate professional repairs or take interim measures to prevent further damage (for example, placing buckets under a drip, or moving furniture away from a leak).

• Pool and Yard Care: After a big storm, you can count on us to give your yard some TLC as well. We’ll skim the pool surface for major debris, empty skimmer baskets clogged with leaves, and make sure the pool pump is running properly (a quick post-storm check that can save your equipment). If patio items blew around or got drenched, we’ll straighten them up. Our goal is that you come home to a yard that looks almost like no storm happened at all. And if something needs more attention – say, a fallen tree that requires a tree service – we’ll keep you informed and can even help schedule service if you wish.

• Preventative Measures: Our sitters stay alert to weather forecasts. If a particularly nasty storm is predicted while you’re away, we can do extra prep during our visit – like moving that fragile potted plant indoors, or double-checking that all windows are latched. We treat your home with the same care as if it were our own, taking proactive steps to avoid damage.

• Keeping the Home Running: Monsoon-related power outage while you’re on vacation? We can meet with home service providers who’ll reset your digital timers, thermostats, or alarm systems as needed if you can't be home. If the power goes out during a visit, we make sure things come back online correctly. Your HVAC is crucial in the summer – we’ll verify that the A/C is back cooling once power returns, so pets stay comfortable. In short, we won’t leave your home until we know it’s secure, cooled, and back in order after a storm.

All these actions are part of our standard service because we understand what locals worry about in monsoon season. You can travel or be at work knowing that if a monsoon hits, TLC is on the scene. We’ll handle the scary stuff and the cleanup, so you don’t come home to any nasty surprises. Next, we’ll answer a few common questions you might have about pets, monsoons, and how our service works during storm season.

Monsoon Pet Safety FAQs

How can I calm my pet during a storm?

To calm your pet during a storm, start by setting up a quiet, secure space for them inside the house. Provide familiar bedding and maybe a chewy treat or favorite toy in this safe area. Many pets feel better in small, enclosed spots like a crate or a closet – anywhere they can hide comfortably. Try to mask the storm noise by playing gentle music or turning on the TV for background sound. Stay calm and upbeat yourself, as your pet will read your energy. If you’re with them, speak softly and offer reassuring petting or a treat when they handle a thunderclap without panic. Never scold them for being afraid; instead, reward calm behavior with praise or snacks. You can also consider an anxiety wrap (ThunderShirt) or ask your vet about calming pheromone sprays and supplements if your pet’s anxiety is severe. Every pet is different, so it may take some experimenting to find what soothes yours best – but your comforting presence and a safe, cozy environment are the first steps.

What if a monsoon hits while I’m away?

Monsoon storms can strike suddenly, so it’s wise to have a plan in case one blows through when you’re not home. If no one is watching your house, consider investing in a smart camera or home monitoring system so you can at least check inside remotely for any pet distress or damage. However, technology can’t replace having a human present. The best solution is to have a trusted neighbor or a professional house sitter on call. If you’ve hired TLC Pet & House Sitting, you can breathe easy – we monitor weather alerts and will adjust our visit to ensure your home and pets are safe. For example, if a storm hits midday and you’re on vacation, we’ll pop in to check on things (and cuddle your pet) even if it’s outside the normal schedule. We’ll address any issues (like wiping up water that blew in, resetting a tripped breaker, or calming a shaking dog). In short, when a monsoon hits and you’re away, we act as your stand-in, making sure everything is alright until the storm passes. You’ll get a message update so you know your fur-kids and home are safe.

Why do pets get so anxious during storms?

Pets perceive storms very differently than we do. Their hearing and other senses are far more acute, so the booming thunder and flashing lightning can feel overwhelming. Scientifically, storm anxiety (or “storm phobia”) in pets is thought to be triggered by the drop in barometric pressure, the buildup of static electricity, and the low-frequency rumblings that precede a storm – things humans might not even notice. Dogs and cats may also learn to associate dark skies, wind, and rain with those scary loud noises, so even the early cues of a storm can set them on edge. Storm anxiety is one of the most common phobias in dogs and cats. They aren’t “behaving badly” on purpose; they’re genuinely frightened. That’s why it’s important for us to be patient and provide them with comfort and security until the storm passes.

What areas do you serve in the East Valley?

TLC Pet & House Sitting proudly serves the East Valley communities of Tempe, Chandler, Gilbert, and southwest Mesa (and nearby neighborhoods as well). This monsoon season, we’re ready to help pet owners and homeowners across these areas. If you’re not sure whether you’re in our service range, just give us a call or check our website – chances are, if you’re in the broader Tempe/Mesa/Gilbert region, we’ve got you covered. We’re local East Valley folks ourselves, so we know exactly what challenges come with our desert summers!

Will a pet sitter also look after my home during storms?

Absolutely. That’s the “& House Sitting” part of our service! When you book with TLC, you’re getting comprehensive home and pet care. Our sitters don’t just feed Fluffy and dash – especially not during a monsoon. We take the time to do a full house check, secure doors and windows, and ensure there are no storm-related problems. If the power went out, we’ll verify that everything (like the A/C, fridge, and alarms) is back online. If a monsoon knocks down a tree limb or causes a leak, we’ll take appropriate steps, from simple cleanup to contacting you and emergency services as needed. Think of our sitters as stand-in homeowners: we treat your home with the same diligence and concern as you would. This way, you get to enjoy your time away stress-free, knowing both your pets and your home are under watchful care.

Peace of Mind During Monsoon Season

Monsoon season in Arizona doesn’t have to be scary for you or your pets. With some preparation and the help of a reliable pet and house sitter, you can ride out the summer storms with complete peace of mind. At TLC Pet & House Sitting, we’re passionate about providing that comfort to East Valley families. We’ve seen firsthand how relieved our clients feel when they get a photo of their dog snoozing peacefully during a thunderstorm, or a text that “All is well at home!” after a big monsoon rolled through.

Don’t let storm anxiety or home worries ruin your summer fun. Whether you’re traveling out of town or just away at work, we’re here to keep an eye on things when the monsoon clouds gather. Your pets will be comforted and cared for, and your property will be looked after as if you were there yourself.

Stay safe this monsoon season, and remember that you don’t have to weather the storms alone – TLC is here to help. If you’d like the ultimate peace of mind while you’re away, give us a call or visit our website to book your pet and house sitting services. With TLC Pet & House Sitting on the job, you can sit back and enjoy the rain knowing everything back home is under control. Here’s to a safe and stress-free monsoon season for you, your pets, and your home!