Helping Your Dog Cope with Loss
Losing a pet is always so sad, but when our pets themselves lose someone they love? Heartbreaking.
Biscuit has been really struggling with the loss of his big brother Percy. Percy was with him for almost his whole life, and they were great friends.
Although he is starting to get better, I have noticed a lot of depression-like symptoms and for the first few days a lot of anxiety. He’s been a lot more tired than usual, less interested in playing and working with me, and generally has a really sad sort of energy about him. He’s also been struggling to focus. As my friend noted the other day, “it’s like walking a puppy”.
If your dog is going through something similar, here’s some tips to help:
Go back to behavioural wellness
When in doubt, return to behavioural wellness. Whenever there is a life change or a change in behaviour (and especially when there is both) I go back to Sarah Stremming’s Four Steps to Behavioural Wellness. As she says, “balance is a verb”, so we often need to shift things a little and rebalance as we go. It’s okay to put training or other goals on hold and just focus on wellness for a while.
Comfort them
Comfort the dog. If they want to be close to you, let them. If they need extra cuddles, or more enrichment than usual, give that to them. Dogs are social species and it’s normal for them to seek connection when they are having a hard time.
Plan things that make them happy
Planning outings, playdates and enriching activities can be of great benefit. It’s helpful to get them out of their funk by offering easy things they enjoy, like a beach day or hike with their buddies or a tasty new chew. Think about what your dog really loves and do that. Work well within your dog’s limits so it's fun and successful for everyone.
Don’t panic
It’s not uncommon for dogs who have suffered a recent loss to behave abnormally. They may be more lethargic than usual, be more reactive or sensitive, or show some signs of separation distress. These things can be alarming for us, but try not to panic. Support them as best you can, and ask for help when you need it.
Lean on your team
Sudden behaviour change in our dogs is always alarming, especially so when we are also struggling. Reach out to your support network and also pet professionals for help. As well as vets and trainers, adding in enrichment visits from a dog walker, or visiting a body worker can help your dog cope.
