Is Your Dog Mourning The Loss Of Its Canine Companion? 4 Ways To Help It Through The Grieving Process
If you've recently lost had one of your dogs pass away, your surviving dog may be going through its own grieving process. It's not uncommon for dogs to grieve when they lose a close companion. Unfortunately, many human caregivers don't realize that their remaining dog is grieving. That's why it's crucial for you to pay attention to the signs your dog is giving. It might be trying to tell you that it's hurting emotionally. Here are some things you should do if your dog is grieving the loss of their canine companion.
Watch for the Warning Signs
If your dog is grieving the loss of its companion, it might start exhibiting signs of depression. You'll need to keep an eye out for those signs. Some of the signs you should watch for include a loss of appetite, lethargy, drastic change in behavior, or physical illness. If your dog begins to exhibit any of those signs, you need to schedule an appointment with the veterinarian. Your dog may benefit from medication for depression. This is particularly important if your dog has stopped eating altogether.
Keep Things as Normal as Possible
If your dog is still functioning, but acting sadder than usual, it's important that you keep things as normal as possible. Try to stick to the same routine you had prior to the passing of your dogs companion. For instance, if your dogs went for a walk together each day, continue the walks. If your dogs were on a specific feeding schedule, maintain that schedule. Your dog needs to know that some things will stay the same.
Spend Some Extra Time with Your Dog
While your dog is in mourning, it may require some additional attention from you. In fact, you may notice that your dog has become more clingy. If that's the case, spend some extra time with your dog each day. If your dog wants to cuddle on the couch, grab a blanket, turn a movie on, and spend some time cuddling. Your dog may need to added comfort to make it through the grieving process.
Consider a New Pet Carefully
Eventually, your dog may want a new companion. Be sure you're ready for a new dog before you bring one home though. The last thing you want to do is introduce a new pet before you're ready for it. When you do decide that it's time for a new companion for your dog, be sure to include it in the process. Contact your local animal shelter and ask if you can bring your dog down for a visit. You'll not only be able to see if your dog is ready for a new companion, but you'll be able to watch to see if it takes a liking to a particular one.
If your dog is mourning the loss of its canine companion, use the tips provided here to help it through the process. If your pet continues to exhibit severe signs of depression, be sure to consult with your veterinarian or an animal hospital.