Losing a loved one, whether human or animal, can be one of the toughest life moments we face. So, when the worst happens, how can that impact our pets as well as us and what can we do to ensure our animal companions remain as calm and cared for as possible
As the RSPCA reminds us, although we don’t know for sure if pets grieve in the same way as us, many of our animal companions show signs they’re struggling after losing a companion.
Sam Gaines, head of Companion Animals for the RSPCA has this advice: “Watching our pets closely and looking for changes to their normal behaviour can tell us more about how they are coping, allowing us to provide them with what they need.”
What’s Changed For Your Pet?
Someone is missing. Emotions are heightened. For human and animal, the environment is different, feels different, and perhaps the everyday things, the activities in your home, have changed too.
What can help your pet adjust?
• Keep things familiar and stick to those usual routines wherever possible.
• Try to keep those feeding, walks and sleep times consistent as keeping their routine steady will be reassuring for them.
• Give regular reassurance to your pet, but allow them space if they need it.
• Your pet may become more vocal or withdrawn than usual, so watch for any changes with their appetite, sleep and behaviour in general.
• Give your animal companion plenty of attention – play time, quiet time – whatever is right for them.
• Provide calming support like pheromone diffusers or sprays to ease any anxiety. Ask your local vet for advice on this.
• If you’re worried about your pet, always speak to your veterinary team, as they are here to advise and support in moments like this.
Different animals respond differently to loss. The RSPCA’s Pet Bereavement Toolkit provides advice and support for owners of dogs, cats, horses, rabbits, guinea pigs and other small animals, including the key signs to look for.
For those of you living in a multi-pet household, the loss of an animal companion can be hard on other pets in your home.
“Some pets may search for their companion, while others may become quieter or less interested in food or play,” explains the RSPCA.
So, to support your pet, expect some behaviour changes in the short-term and give them time.
• Let them adjust at their own pace and, where possible, keep shared spaces and belongings for a while.
• Avoid making lots of changes at once.
• If you notice behavioural changes in another pet in the household, after the death of an animal companion, always speak to your vet, who can recommend accredited behaviour specialists.
If you would benefit from support after the death of a beloved pet, here are some support services:
0800 0966606
0800 024 9494
Call 116 123 any time, day or night.
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