As promised, here is more info on solutions for dogs who are terrified of thunderstorms and/or fireworks:
Many of the dogs who react to thunderstorms are afraid of the sound of the thunder. The information below may help these dogs deal with this fear, and with fear of other loud sounds such as fireworks.
Some dogs react to other atmospheric conditions associated with storms, such as barometric pressure and other factors that are hard to measure. They are harder to help. If they seek a grounded surface such as an appliance or metal bathtub, let them (one German Shepherd I know gets on top of the family’s washing machine during storms).
There is a very thorough article at this link
Two therapies discussed in this article are particularly helpful for sound-phobic dogs: melatonin treatment and a pressure wrap (described under "Hug Therapy" in the article referenced above) I've heard that, in a pinch, a snug-fitting T-shirt has some of the helpfulness of the body wrap.
The hormone melatonin helps many dogs that are afraid of loud sounds such as thunder and fireworks. It can be purchased over the counter at health food stores. The dose for an average size dog (30-100 lb) is a 3 mg tablet, ideally to be given before anxiety becomes severe (once they're really stressed, it's less effective). Dogs weighing over 100 pounds may need 6 mg. Dogs weighing less than 30 lb should receive 1.5 mg.
The recommended dose can be given up to 3 times per day.
It is most effective if given before the dog becomes anxious. If thunderstorms are predicted and you have to leave the house, you may give your dog melatonin before you leave – it remains effective for several hours.
Before you buy melatonin, read the following excerpt from the site:
"It's important to read the labels on melatonin bottles very carefully. Some are mixed with herbs or nutrients that may not be safe for dogs. Make sure you buy the correct dosage for your size dog. Remember, there are 1,000 micrograms (mcg.) in a milligram (mg.) so a 200 mcg. pill contains only 1/15 of the amount recommended for a large dog.
" Because melatonin is not regulated by any federal agency, the quality varies greatly from manufacturer to manufacturer. If an inferior product is administered, it may not be effective in calming a dog whereas a higher quality product might be. We cannot recommend any particular brand that is best, so the best course of action is purchase the product from a supplier you trust and believe to carry better quality. “
The veterinarian who pioneered this therapy is Dr. Linda Aronson at Tufts New England Veterinary Medical Center. If your veterinarian is curious, the citation for her original case report is J Am Vet Med Assoc. 1999 Jul 1;215(1):22-24.
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