When one dog in a two-dog household is gravely ill, I highly recommend try and find a way to let the other dog(s) know of the passing. It helps the other dog(s) go forward with the knowledge that their friend has died. It’s very important to them emotionally.
It’s not unusual for dogs to grieve the loss of a person or animal friend they are bonded with. Dogs feel the same basic emotions humans do, including grief, fear, anger, happiness, sadness, and even possessiveness.
Like people, no two dogs are alike and neither are their responses to death and loss. Some dogs mourn and others don’t. Some may show signs of physical sadness, while others may display symptoms of negative behavior, and some may not show any sign of emotional suffering at all.
When a dog is mourning a loss, depression is common, Signs of depression in dogs mimic those in people – sleeping more than normal, moving more slowly, eating less, and showing a limited interest in playing.
If your pet has lost her appetite, try giving some of her favorite foods to encourage her to eat. Offering the occasional treat is fine but don’t use treats to replace the extra attention or cuddles she might need.
Also avoid offering treats to quiet a dog who barks or whines excessively. It may reinforce the unwanted behavior and could result in the development of a new bad habit. Only praise desirable behavior. Be patient; your pet is just expressing his emotions.
If your dog seems depressed at the loss of a person or animal she was bonded to, try engaging your pet in more playtime and activities she enjoys – a walk, a game of fetch, or a trip to the dog park. This helps raise serotonin levels, which may have a positive impact on your dog’s behavior. It’s really a matter of distracting your dog with things she enjoys until sufficient time has passed and she’s no longer looking around every corner for the one who is now absent from her life.
Consider aromatherapy or homeopathy for your pet. Although there is no cure for grief, some essential oils or homeopathic remedies can improve your pet’s emotional wellbeing. Always seek qualified advice on which oils or remedies are safe to use.
I would caution not to expect a quick fix. It can take from a few weeks to a few months before your dog’s depressed mood begins to lift. Show your pet a little patience, human emotions and behaviors can also feed in to the dog’s mood or behavior. Maintaining a normal routine for your pet, such as maintaining a familiar eating time or playtime, is the best way to help with the transitional process.
Caring for your pet and helping him through his grief can also assist you (and other family members) with the healing process.
