Does The Death Of Another Pet Affect Dogs?
Whether or not dogs have feelings has always been a topic of debate between animal lovers and non-lovers. It is for this reason that many have wondered if death affects dogs, either of a pet or of a relative.
Does death affect dogs?
There are not many detours that can be taken on this issue. There have been many animals that we have seen for years waiting for their owners, or some that have had depression when a pet that lived with them has died.
This happens because dogs are routine animals, they need to live in a community and do not usually cope well with changes. An unexpected change can alter the sense of security that the animal had, and this can turn his life around that he is not prepared to take on.
This does not mean that all dogs have the same attitude towards death, but as a general rule it can happen that way. These are the symptoms that will make you see that your dog has been affected by the death of your other pet:
- Does not want to eat
- Does not want to go out
- Prefer not to play
- He spends the day sleeping or lethargic
- He ignores your calls
- They are not excited about their toys
- Constantly looking for ‘something’ around the house
- Cry for no reason
If you notice some of these symptoms in your dog, it is certain that the death of the other pet, or of a family member, has affected him more than you thought. These could lead to depression, so you have to act before it happens.
How to Help a Dog Suffering from Death
Before taking your dog to the vet, there are several things you can try at home to try to alleviate his pain.
Let him see the body
Studies have shown that seeing the dead body of the other pet can help the dog overcome death. Do you remember Hachiko? He stayed years waiting for his owner because he simply did not know what had happened and lived in the hope that one day he would appear. Allowing him to see the body will be like closing a chapter.
give it time
We all have our particular way of reacting to adversity, and your dog was not going to be less. Although we understand that you do not like to see him sad, do not overwhelm him by wanting to pamper him or by playing with him. Let him assimilate everything that has happened; when he’s ready he’ll let you know.
Leave your food close at hand
We have always been advised to remove the dog’s food once its time to eat has passed. But in this rare case, leave his bowl of food close at hand. It is possible that when the time comes you may not want to eat, but later you feel better and have the urge to do so. Having food close by will make things easier for you.
Follow your routine
Sticking with the same daily routine of walks, games and exercises will help you to continue leading a normal life and forget about it. Even if you don’t feel like going out, you will have to. If necessary you can take it in your arm. Little by little it will be less difficult to convince him.
Be careful if you bring another pet
It is possible that both you and him want to bring a new pet home, but be careful! Both of you must be prepared for it, because if your dog had a very close bond with the previous one and not enough time has passed, he may be threatened or think that he is coming to usurp his place.
If you see that with these tips your dog’s mood does not improve, it is possibly because it is one of those dogs that are affected by death intensely. In these cases, it is best to receive medical and psychological help.
