Taking care of our pets means caring for their physical and mental well-being. Our pets become full members of our families, to the point that when one member of the family dies, our pets grieve too. Or maybe if you have multiple pets and one of them dies, the ones left experience grief.
So, how do you make sure you offer emotional support to your four-legged besties?
When pets are grieving, these are the signs they display, according to Pets at Peace, an organisation that specialises in pet loss and memorial services.
- Changes in sleeping patterns
- Changes in eating habits
- Lack of interest in normal activities
- Reluctance to be in a room or home alone, or away from human family members
- Wandering the house, searching for their lost friend
We know that our pets become our safe space at times when we feel lonely, they are a constant reminder that we are not alone. Now, what do we do to reciprocate the energy? There are ways suggested by experts that have proven to be effective.
Pets at Peace gave a list of heartfelt tips to warm your pet’s heart during times of sorrow.
Be consistent in routines: According to the organisation mentioned above, all pets, not just those who are mourning, do best when they know what to expect from day to day. “Try to keep mealtimes, exercise, walks, playtime, grooming, bedtime, and other daily activities on a consistent schedule.” Your pet might not have an appetite during this time, but give your pet regular meals after a housemate passes away, and keep any leftovers in the refrigerator. To restore their appetite, feed off of it.
Healthy destruction: It is advised to divert your grieving pet’s attention with activities that promote health and offer chances for reinforcement of positive behaviour. This may be going for a stroll, doing quick training sessions, playing fetch, or working out together.
Aroma is crucial: Zoetis Pet Care suggests that saving a few blankets, beds, and other things that are strongly scented with the aroma of your pet that passed on might help your grieving pet find some solace from them.
Let them bid farewell: “Depending on the circumstances of your pet’s passing, and your personal feelings on the matter, you may find it helpful to allow your living dog or cat a moment with the body of your pet who passed,” reports the Zoetis. Though it’s believed that occasionally being able to smell their companion’s body might assist the grieving process , we don’t know how fully they understand what’s occurring.
Control your feelings: The organisation above lastly advises that the owner of a grieving pet must manage their emotions. This one is difficult, but keep in mind that our emotions can affect our pets’ emotions as well. Our dogs and cats frequently attempt to look after us during stressful and depressing times, just as we look after them.
