My dog is depressed after a pet loss. What can I do to help him?

I'm sorry to hear about the loss of your pup. Depression and mourning are very normal in dogs, especially after the loss of a close companion. It may be that Aysha needs some more time to mourn, and some extra attention, care and loving would help. Sticking to a schedule can also help her return to a more normal routine. If she is still having lots of issues, speaking with a local vet or veterinary behaviorist to see if medication would be helpful may also be beneficial for her.

Hi. Yes, just like people, pets can become depressed for a period of time after a loss or change. Getting another pet is totally a personal decision. If that's what she has been used to, it is definitely an option. If you aren't ready, or not wanting another pet, she will adjust.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am so sorry about the passing of your dog. You could consider getting Billy a new housemate as that may help him now. Otherwise, you can also consider taking him for walks frequently for him to see other people and other pups which may help. I hope he gets better!

I am saddened to hear about the passing of Sami. It's so hard to lose them. Pets do mourn the loss of their pack. Things you can do to help Junior get through this are giving him daily exercise, focus on training and give him lots of attention. Exercise will help to physically tire him out and this will decrease anxiety and help to maintain his appetite. Training will mentally stimulate him and help him to bond closer to you. The attention will help him to be comforted. You really want to focus on decreasing anxiety and keeping him on a routine. This dark cloud will eventually pass usually within a few weeks to a few months but each pet is different. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

I'm so sorry for your loss! Pets grieve, just as we do. Try to keep your dog's daily routine as normal as possible, while giving your dog some extra attention and exercise as a distraction. Ultimately, grief takes time to process for our four legged friends, just as it does for us.

Unfortunately, that isn't really something you can explain to a pet. Pets do mourn and suffer loss like people, and Maddie may feel a bit depressed, look for the lost person, or just seem sad. The best thing you can do is try to spend more time with her, either giving her some extra attention, a toy to distract her, or just petting and calmly spending time together. It will take time, but hopefully the extra love can help the two of you through your grief.

A decrease appetite and lethargy are common after the passing of a housemate as they go through a depression. The best thing is to have her checked by a vet to make sure there are no medical problems that can cause this and then they can add medication to help her handle the depression if needed. You can always try special food and treats such as boiled chicken and rice or chicken broth to the diet if she is just eating less to see if that encourages her more.