If you own multiple pets, dogs will form attachments to the other animals in the household. If a veterinarian decides putting a pet to sleep is the best decision, your remaining pup could take the loss particularly hard. Although dogs don’t cry like humans, their grief can manifest as depression, loss of appetite, or behavioral changes. Using the following advice will help your canine mourn, heal, and move on. 

3 Tips to Help Dogs Grieve the Loss of Other Pets

1. Don’t Coddle

Since your intentions can sometimes be misinterpreted, don’t coddle your pet when they’re acting down in the dumps, no matter how much you may want to. They might think the extra attention is a reward for the behavior. Dogs are eager to please their owners, so they might continue to act depressed and dwell on the negative emotions. To show sympathy in a constructive way, choose bonding activities that provide mental stimulation, such as teaching new tricks or reinforcing training. 

2. Schedule More Exercise Time 

Just like humans, remaining active will help raise a dog’s spirits. Increase the number of times you open the door to let them run in the yard, schedule more trips to the park, or take extra walks around the neighborhood. Exercising will release endorphins to help elevate their mood. A veterinarian can also recommend an exercise regimen to improve your pet’s overall mental and physical well-being.    

3. Consider Getting Another Pet

The loss of companionship might be incredibly difficult for dogs who are used to being around other animals. When the time is right for everyone in the family, think about bringing another canine companion into the home. Your current dog will take on more of a parental role, caring for the new family member and teaching them the lay of the land. This can take their mind off the loss and give them another buddy to love.

To help your sick pet pass with dignity, contact the compassionate professionals at Sweet Dreams In-Home Pet Euthanasia. Based in Woodstock, GA, and serving the northern metro Atlanta area for 10 years, the licensed veterinarians and technicians provide in-home euthanasia so pets can have their last moments in familiar settings surrounded by those they love. The veterinarian also helps families create end-of-life pet care plans to prepare for the loss. To discuss options, call (770) 880-1596. Learn more about what to expect from the process online.