An interesting article:
http://www.dogsincanada.com/do-dogs-mourn~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Another great article from Citizen Canine at Cook St RO,
PO Box 23078, BC V8V 4Z8
Do pets grieve
too?
We understand that it
is normal for people
to grieve at the loss of
a pet, but often we forget that other
pets in our home will also grieve for
the loss of their companion. It can be
difficult as you will be in the midst of
your own grief, but be aware that your
pets also need to receive some
support. Often having the needs of
your other pet to focus on can be
helpful for you as well.
If there is opportunity for your pets
to approach the body of the deceased
pet, this can be of benefit. But
remember that your pet may not act
normally or have the reaction you
might expect. Some may act very
sombre and quietly investigate the
body of their friend, whereas others
may traipse around, stepping over or
on the deceased pet. Some animals
get more agitated; others completely
ignore the body. Whatever the
response, accept it for what it is. Try
to avoid putting your own views onto
them. Each animal has his or her own
way of reacting to the loss. We don’t
want to reinforce agitation though,
and if your pets get anxious, keep the
visit brief.
To help our pets cope with the
loss, the goal is to minimize our
attention to their anxiety, and redirect
their focus on positive activities.
Playing together, going for walks, and
teaching new tricks can help return
them to a positive focus. The
duration of their sadness may vary,
but is generally much shorter than
that which we experience.
Some pets become more clingy
and needy without their companion. It
is easy for us in our sorrow to cling
back and hover together in our grief.
Unfortunately, this is not very healthy
as it only serves to reinforce that
anxiety. It is our role to be the strong
ones, acting positive and cheery,
and giving attention for calm, responsive
behaviours. Again the goal is to
change our pets’ focus to activities
and fun behaviours.
Take heart that you will see your
pets become animated and happy
once again. This is a beneficial part
of your own healing from the loss.
Remember the blessing of having
been chosen as the one to share in
the life of a very special being. Each
one has a place in your heart for a
lifetime.
Dr. Shelley Breadner, is a veterinarian
with Breadner Veterinary Services
in Saanichton
The Pacific Animal Therapy Society’s
Pet Loss Support Line offers
telephone support to anyone who
has experienced or is anticipating
the loss of a pet. Trained volunteers
provide caring emotional support
and information about grief issues
and local resources. Call 389-8047
between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m.,
seven days a week.
