For some animals, a storm is simply something that happens. For others, it is a terrifying event. Thunder, lightning, wind, heavy rain and even changes in atmospheric pressure can trigger a very real fear response.

Dogs may pace and pant, shake and hide, bark and try to escape or cling desperately to their owners. Cats can also become extremely distressed, although they often show their anxiety in much quieter ways.

So, when should you consider medication?

The first thing I tell owners is that medication is not a failure. If your pet becomes so frightened that they are unable to settle, may injure themselves trying to escape, or spend hours in a state of panic, medication can be an important part of a compassionate treatment plan.

There are several medications that veterinarians may consider. Trazodone is commonly used for short-term anxiety and can be particularly useful when a storm is anticipated.

Gabapentin, which is also used for pain and seizure management, can have calming and anti-anxiety effects and may be useful for some pets experiencing storm-related fear. Both can cause sedation and individual responses vary considerably.

Then there is CBD, which many owners ask us about. Not all CBD products are created equal. The concentration, ingredients, manufacturing standards, purity and consistency can vary considerably between products.

This is why, if CBD is being considered, I believe it is particularly important to approach the decision using evidence-based medicine, rather than simply choosing a product because it is labelled “natural” or has good reviews online.

Your veterinarian can help you assess whether it is an appropriate option for your individual pet and, importantly, whether the product itself is one you can have confidence in.

Perhaps the most important point about any medication is this: never wait until the middle of a major storm to discover whether it works for your pet.

Every animal is an individual. One medication may make one dog pleasantly relaxed, while another may become excessively sleepy or react in an unexpected way.

Your veterinarian can help you choose an appropriate medication and dose but it is extremely useful to trial the medication beforehand, on a calm day, so you can see exactly how your pet responds. This also gives us the opportunity to adjust the dose or try another option if necessary.

Medication is only one piece of the puzzle. Creating a safe, quiet area in the house, closing curtains, masking thunder with music or white noise, using pheromones, providing a favourite bed or hiding place and using positive-reinforcement training can all help.

For some pets, gradual desensitisation and counter-conditioning can make a significant difference over time.

The key is to plan ahead. Storm anxiety is much easier to manage when you have a plan in place before the clouds gather.

If your pet struggles during storms, please talk to your veterinarian well before the next big weather event. Discuss the medication options, non-medication approaches and your pet’s individual needs.

If medication is appropriate, trial it beforehand so that you and your veterinarian know how your pet responds and which approach gives the best balance of relaxation and alertness.

A little preparation before the storm can make a very frightening night considerably easier — for your pet and for you. And in Bermuda, where we know stormy weather can arrive with very little warning, having that plan in place really can make all the difference.

• Lucy Richardson graduated from Edinburgh University in 2005. She started CedarTree Vets in August 2012 with her husband, Mark. They live at the practice with their two children, Ray and Stella, and their dog and two cats. She is also the FEI national head veterinarian for Bermuda