Losing a pet is similar to losing a member of your family. It is tough on everyone, including other pets that live in your home. Dogs grieve for their fellow dogs in their own individual ways. The death of a fellow companion has a profound effect on dogs. This should not go unnoticed by dog owners. You should try your best to make the grieving process as easy as possible for your dog. Be patient when dealing with a grieving dog. At times, dogs take their time dealing with grief. It can take weeks, sometimes even months. Let’s have a look at some signs that show your dog is grieving and some useful tips to help a grieving dog.
How do you know your dog is grieving? There is no specific way a dog grieves. All dogs show individual reactions. Some might show symptoms of grieving, while others might not have any reaction. This does not mean they are not grieving. The most common effects in dogs after losing a canine companion may be as follows:
They could go through depression and exhibit decreased energy levels. This will also cause behavioral changes and a decreased enjoyment of tasks they loved to do before. Dogs may become too clingy with their owners and might also show signs of separation anxiety. They may show substantial whimpering, whining and a refusal to eat. At times, dogs also start pacing when in grief.
You can make the grieving process easier for your dogs through the following techniques. Here are some tips to help a grieving dog.
• Try not to be sad or emotional when your dog is present. Dogs are very receptive to their owners’ feelings and pick on emotion easily. If you are crying loudly in front of your dog, this might stress them out. This makes the grieving process even harder for them. Try to act strong, robust and composed when your dig is present.
• Losing a dog is difficult for dog owners and fellow canines. When you are grieving, you may not feel like performing the daily tasks of your other dog. Make an effort to do so. Remind yourself that your other dog needs your attention. Feed your dog on time and go for walks at the set time. In other words, maintain your dog’s routine. Dog’s thrive on routine. Maintaining their regular routine will help them relax and feel better. A set routine that is avidly followed directs your dogs’ biological clock. This is what enables them to recognize their meal times and walk times.
• Try and spend more time outdoors with your dog. This will distract your dog from thinking about its lost friend. You can take your dog for a walk to the dog park where it can meet other canine friends. If your dog enjoys car rides, a ride around the block can also distract your dog.
• In order to help a grieving dog, try to distract your pooch as much as possible. Visit its favorite pet store and buy snacks and toys to uplift the dog’s mood. Feed it the food it loves and give it special attention. Just like humans, dogs also enjoy being indulged. This is a great way to take its mind off its missing friend. Provide your dog with all the comfort it needs. Reassurance will help calm your dog from an anxious or stressed-out state. Do not let your dog feel alone when grieving. Let your dog know that it can always count on you.
• Don’t let your dog spend time alone. Stay with your pooch as much as possible. If your dog is alone most of the day, hire a pet sitter to keep it company. You can also consider dropping your dog off at doggy daycare. Keep your dog busy with interactive toys when you are away.
• Discourage your dog from showing unwanted behavior. But at the same time, give your dog what it needs. For example: if your dog is seeking attention, give it attention. If your dog wants to lie down alone, let it be. Make your presence known by frequently petting it or talking to it but don’t force attention.
• Another useful tip is to give your dog time to adapt to change. Losing a constant canine companion can be highly stressful. It’s a big change for your dog. Rushing to buy another dog immediately can just confuse your dog a little more. Give your pooch some time to adjust and get over the grieving process. If you eventually do get another dog, make sure the new dog’s personality matches your current pooch. This will make it easier for them to become friends.
• Assess your dog’s symptoms and behavior. If your dog is showing signs of physical illness such as vomiting, diarrhea or a persistent loss of appetite, visit your veterinarian. Grief can cause stress in dogs, which can bring serious health issues. Your doctor can evaluate this and tell you how to proceed. If medically your dog is sound, the vet can also recommend other types of therapeutic treatment to make your dog better.
Do remember these tips to help a grieving dog. Losing a best friend and constant companion can be traumatic for your pet. As a dog owner, it’s your job to make the grieving process as smooth as possible for your pooch. These efforts will enable your dog to cope with the loss and eventually overcome it.
by Maria A Davidson || You can’t buy love, but you can rescue it™ .
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