SEEKING DOGS WITH EXTREME FEAR OF THUNDERSTORMS FOR VETERINARY STUDY IN FLORIDA

Multiple Clinics Participating in Study Evaluating an Investigational Medication
With the Goal of Achieving the Medication's Approval by FDA

RALEIGH, N.C., June 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dog owners in Florida—the storm capital of the U.S—now have the opportunity to have their dogs screened for possible inclusion in a clinical study evaluating a potential treatment for severe thunderstorm aversion. The study is evaluating an investigational oral medication given twice-daily during storm season that could offer round-the-clock relief. Participation is free, and qualifying dogs receive all study-related care--including evaluations, diagnostic testing, exams, and medication (or placebo) at no cost.

Marilyn Bonner says her dog was "skittish" of storms and loud noises when living in Pennsylvania, but upon moving to Florida, her Boxer developed intense anxiety. "Nothing prepared us for the thunderstorms in Florida. They're so intense and so frequent. As soon as one rolls in, she'll start panting and severely shaking. It's heartbreaking."

Dogs With Thunderstorm Aversion Are Suffering 
Dogs with severe thunderstorm aversion often display their intense fear by hiding, cowering, destructiveness, trembling/shaking, self-harm, and more. Sadly, the fear may begin hours before a storm arrives, and in some cases, take days for dogs to recover.

"During a thunderstorm, my dog never leaves my side; she's there shaking, drooling, and practically hyperventilating. There are times I've thought she was going to have a heart attack," says Jill Powers, of Southwest Florida. "I just feel so terrible for her."

In a published study, nearly 50% of dog owners reported their dogs show fear when exposed to noises.

What Dogs Can Participate?
In order to be eligible, dogs must show signs of thunderstorm aversion, weigh at least 8.8 lbs., be in good general health, and meet certain other criteria. Interested dog owners can visit DogStormStudy.com to see if there's a participating veterinary site nearby and complete a short pre-screening questionnaire.

Take Action Now
The study only runs a few months during Florida's storm season, so pet owners interested in signing up their dogs should act quickly.

Participation offers pet owners a chance to help their dogs, support research that could lead to a medication approved by the Food & Drug Administration's Center for Veterinary Medicine, and benefit generations of dogs in the future.

To learn more, visit DogStormStudy.com 

About Visionaire
Visionaire Research & Education supports patient recruitment for veterinary clinical studies, helping veterinary pharmaceutical Sponsors speed new pet medications to market. The Company's number one priority is helping dogs, cats, and horses — and their owners — experience a better quality of life through innovative treatments and solutions. The pivotal studies Visionaire supports can be a way to gain access to quality diagnostics and veterinary care — and investigational therapies that often aren't available anywhere else — all at no cost to pet owners. For more information, visit vrande.com.

Contact: Megan Hepp, 919-293-0243 x 202; [email protected]

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SOURCE Dog Storm Study