Tips For Helping Your Dog Cope With The Loss Of A Companion
by Scotty Valadao - Animal Communicator, Canine Behaviourist
by Scotty Valadao - Animal Communicator, Canine Behaviourist
Not all dogs will feel the loss of a companion dog, however if the dogs were closely bonded and one of them passes, the surviving dog may have what is often referred to as ‘distress reaction’, which really is just like grief in us humans. Dogs can suffer from this is varying degrees, from just acting a bit ‘out of sorts’ to full blown depression in some cases. Here are some signs to look out for:-
- Dog may eat less or go off its food altogether.
- Sleeping patterns may change – some dogs will sleep more, whilst other dogs battle to sleep or settle down, and wander around more than usual, especially at night.
- The dog may seem to loose total interest in normal activities.
- Some dogs will separate themselves from the family and want to lie by themselves, and other dogs will become more dependent on its human family, constantly wanting attention or to be more around the family than normal - it all depends on the individual dog.
- What can also occur is that the dog may wander from room to room or outside as if looking for its friend.
- Although it may be tempting to give your dog much more attention than usual, please refrain from this. The reason is that although it may make us feel better, it is actually detrimental to your dog, as excessive petting and more attention than usual, are the biggest contributing factors of separation anxiety and a dog that becomes very pushy. Try to keep the attention you do give your dog as normal as possible. In general, you want to keep life as normal as possible, especially routines.
- Increase daily walks even if only for 15 minutes a day during the week. A daily walk will take the dog's mind off the loss, help to balance serotonin levels and give the dog something to look forward to - this is the dog's walk, allow him to sniff and scent as much as possible, and don't rush him. This will also improve your existing bond and being out in the fresh air with a loved companion, may help your own grief as well - try to walk somewhere in nature where you can look at the wonder of nature, especially near water. It is the negative ions around water that tend to make us feel more relaxed.
- Engage in whatever games the dog normally likes. Don't go too overboard with this but do a bit more than usual. Suggestions, a game of ball, twice a day if this is what the dog enjoys. Often a good idea to keep the time playing short and sweet - this tends to leave the dog wanting to do more.
- Where feeding is concerned, keep mealtimes the same. If the dog does not eat all its food, leave for about 10 minutes and then put into fridge and offer at the next meal - this way you are using his hunger to assist in getting his appetite back. Don't make the mistake of trying to get your dog to eat by hand feeding or offering special treats- this is just the start of a bad habit, dog gets more attention, and your dog training you!
- If there are other dogs in the family, changes in the hierarchy between dogs often changes when one leaves. Try to leave the dogs to sort the new status out for themselves without interference from humans, unless the situation is serious. If this is the case, then do consider professional assistance.
- If you do want to give extra attention, then do consider TTouch. If you have never had the opportunity of attending a TTouch workshop or session, just doing regular Ear Work on your dog will help to reduce the stress levels.
- Being a TTouch Practitioner, I can honestly state that it can make a dramatic difference, especially where stress and fear are concerned. There is a video below on how to do the simple Ear Work. The ear contains over 200 Acupressure points and the tip of the ear can prevent a dog (human or any other animal) go into shock and helps to release stress. If you would like to learn more about this amazing modality just google it, and you will find practitioners worldwide.
- Of course, you will be feeling grief yourself, however the more you upset yourself and cry, the more the dog is going to pick up on this, as they definitely tune into our emotions. You need to mourn but do try to do as much of your mourning in private away from the dog as possible. There is no timeline to grief.
- Consider the use of an Alternative Remedy such as Rescue Remedy or similar. If you feel that your dog needs Vet assistance, don't hesitate to take the dog in for a consult.
- It is better not to consider another dog at this stage - wait until your dog is back to being himself, and then, if necessary, you can think about this option.
- Increase daily walks even if only for 15 minutes a day during the week. A daily walk will take the dog's mind off the loss, help to balance serotonin levels, and give the dog something to look forward to. It will additionally improve your existing bond and being out in the fresh air with a loved companion, may help your own grief as well.
- Engage in whatever games the dog normally likes. Once again, don't go overboard with this, but do a bit more than usual. Suggestions, a game of ball, twice a day if this is what the dog enjoys.
- Increase mental stimulation by way of offering a special treat such as a Kong or Busy Buddy Squirrel Dude, stuffed with some favourite treats - just make sure this does not take the place of standard meals.
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