Another method of treating thunderphobia is by the use of drug therapy. Phenobarbitals have also been used to stop frantic or excitable responses. Drugs can and should be used if the fear response is such that the dog can injure themselves or others, damage property or further reinforce the fear. The ideal situation is a combination of calming drugs along with the behaviour modification. The drugs should be stopped as soon as possible.
Drugs can be useful if behaviour modification is being conducted during the thunder storm season.
Drugs can help prevent an extreme fear response from occuring during a real thunder storm before the training is complete. However, the rewards for both you and your dog will be worth the effort. References Voith, Victoria L. et al,1985. Fears and Phobias in Companion Animals. The Compendium on Continuing Education for the Practising Veterinarian , Vol. 7, No. 3.