ThunderJackets for Dogs: Worth It or Waste?

From Our Family To Yours…

Every CauseForPaws reader, every share, every kind word from you fuels something bigger than all of us.

Together, we’ve turned heartbreak into hope for thousands of dogs who once had no one. They’re running, playing, and sleeping safely tonight because people like you believed they deserved a chance.

Families who opened their doors found more than a pet - they found healing, laughter, and love. You’re the reason it happens. We’re just the hands doing the work, but you’re the heart behind it all.

And we’re just getting started :)

One Man. One Bear. One Rescue Dog Who Refused to Let Go.

The bear came out of nowhere, slamming Steve to the ground and biting his legs and arms. He curled up, bleeding and praying to survive.

Then, through the chaos, a flash of white - Henry. The shaggy stray he’d rescued years before lunged at the bear, biting her back and pulling her away. The bear turned on him, tearing into his chest, but Henry didn’t stop.

Steve threw rocks at the bear until she ran off. When it was over, Henry had vanished. For two agonizing hours, Steve called his name, fearing the worst. Then, back at the car, there he was - bloody, bruised, but waiting.

Steve needed 50 stitches, Henry got 40, yet both lived. Because love like Henry’s doesn’t hesitate…

A dogs love is unconditional - they never second guess whether they'd give their life for you.

ThunderJackets for Dogs: Worth It or Waste?

Some dogs hear thunder and tremble.

Others sleep right through it.

Why?

It’s not just about personality.

Dogs with a healthier, calmer nervous system don’t overreact to loud noises like thunder, fireworks, or sirens.

That’s where tools like the ThunderJacket (or the popular ThunderShirt) come in. They work by applying gentle pressure to your dog’s body - like a calming hug. For some dogs, they’re a lifesaver during fireworks season or summer storms.

And yes - some essential oils (like lavender) may also offer short-term relief.

But here’s what most dog owners rarely ask:

Why are some dogs triggered while others stay relaxed?

Answer: their brains are healthier.

When their brain gets the nutrients it needs, their entire nervous system functions better - which means fewer meltdowns, better sleep, and a calmer, more joyful dog.

Your goal is to feed your dog nutrients that don’t just mask symptoms - but actually supports a calm, healthy brain long-term with daily superfoods like:

• Phosphatidylserine (for focus and emotional balance)

• Norwegian Salmon oil + Vitamin E (for healthy brain chemistry)

• Thiamine + antioxidants (to reduce stress responses)

Other beneficial foods:

• Eggs: A great source of healthy fats, omega-3s, and good cholesterol, which are important for brain and heart health.

• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may support cognitive function.

• Coconut oil and ghee: These saturated fats can provide a different energy source for the brain and have been shown to improve brain function in older dogs.

So yes, ThunderJackets and oils can help in the moment.

But if you want your dog to stay calm even without external tools…

Start with what’s happening inside their brain.

🐾 Paw Profiles: 3 Pups in Search of a Forever Home!

New Jersey shelters are full of good dogs waiting for someone to believe in them again. These three came from one of our favorite no-kill rescue facilities in NJ. Now, all they’re missing is a family to finish the story love already started…

Lucy

Lucy is a bundle of energy and ready for a new home. Lucy would love a big yard and an active family. She loves to run, play and go on hikes. Lucy knows some basic commands and is very smart. She is very good with other dogs, we do not know what she thinks of cats. This friendly girl is about a year old and 55 pounds.

Please help Lucy find the loving home she deserves.

Labrador Retriever/Border Collie, Female-Spayed, Shots Current, Ready for Love! ❤️

Peco

Peco’s story began in the woods, where he and his nine siblings fought to survive before rescue found them.

Today, this sweet boy is healthy, happy, and full of life thanks to good food, gentle hands, and plenty of love.

At about 8–9 months old and 42 pounds, Peco is playful, affectionate, and great with other dogs and kids. Peco’s ready to trade the woods for a warm home and a family who’ll love him for the rest of his days.

Labrador Retriever/Shepherd, Good with kids and dogs, Shots current, Neutered :)

Joey Junior!

Joey Junior spent his early life in tough conditions, mostly outdoors and without much human kindness. At first, he was shy and unsure. But in his foster home, this little 11-pound sweetheart has started to bloom. He’s learned that soft beds, gentle head rubs, and tasty treats mean safety and love.

At just 4 years old, Joey Junior still has so much love to give. He’s ready for a patient, caring home where he’ll never have to be afraid again.

Chihuahua, Good with Dogs, Neutered, Shots Current! 🐶

Take a look at the One Step Closer website to find your perfect match!

👋 We hope this week’s New jersey edition of Cause For Paws brought a smile and reminded you how much our dogs give us every day. Give your pup an extra hug this weekend, and stay tuned for more heartwarming stories next week from all of us at Cause For Paws.