How do I help my dog with thunderstorms?

a lot of dogs have a fear of thunderstorms, fireworks, gunfire, etc. the best way to handle them (usually) is by letting them find a place where they feel safe, usually a dark closet, under the bed, in the bathtub or shower, and let them there while they wait out the storm. In your case it appears the dog is a pacer and this is how he weathers out the storm. You could check with a pet behaviorist and see if they can give you any ideas but I doubt they will be able to help you with any solutions. Have you tried turning on the tv or a radio during the storm and trying to mask the noise a bit? maybe putting him in a room where there are no windows, like a bathroom, turning on the light and maybe the exhaust fan might help. since it doesn't make a difference if he is alone or with you, putting him in a room where he can't get hurt or get into trouble may work. it may calm him down if he can't see the lighting or hear the thunder as much. this is so heartbreaking to see, I know, I had a dog who was the same way. she would end up in the bathtub during the storm and stay there most of the night even after the storm ped.