My dog, Samson, was never concerned about thunder storms until this spring. Now he will break down gates and doors in a panic when it thunders and no one is home. When I am home, he trembles and crawls as close as he can to me.

Desensitization won't work because he is getting senile. His brain no longer can process the sensations he's feeling. Unfortunately, he is passing this fear to Bella. She has never been afraid of storms. In fact, she lived in the woods for two years on her own before I got her.

I have a relaxer for Samson, but I can't be there to administer the drops in the afternoon (when the thunder always starts). They work for him, enough to get through an evening storm. When Samson is satisfied, Bella is OK.

I have no idea how to get Samson through an afternoon when I can't be there. So far, there have only been two panic attacks before I get home from work. Any ideas would be appreciated.