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Depression and Grieving in Pets
Depression and grieving in pets
may take many different forms - from the obviously sad
and
lethargic animal to the pet who manifests illness and behavioral problems
associated with depression.
Animals form very deep attachments
to their owners and to each other. It is therefore
not surprising
when they show signs of grief and depression if their owner or a
companion pet die.
Some animals experience separation
anxiety when their owners go away for a
vacation, or
sometimes even when they leave them for a short time. Separation
anxiety,
can result in depression
or, more commonly (especially in dogs), in destructive
behavior
such as digging, chewing or scratching.
Pets are also very attuned to their owner’s
emotional state. If you are feeling depressed
or grief -
stricken, this may, in turn, impact your pet. Certain breeds of pets
also tend to
worry and fret more
than others. They may be at particular risk of developing
chronic
depression.
Symptoms of grief and
depression can
include:
- Excessive barking
- Lethargy
- Anxiety/nervousness
- Excessive grooming (particularly in cats)
- Self mutilation or destructive behavior
- Weight loss/gain
- Sulking or even aggression
- Change in personality
- Increased clinginess and attachment
- Loss of appetite
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Grief &
Pining Formula
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Use PetAlive Grief
and Pining Formula:
- For the natural treatment of
depression in pets
- To restore stable mood and feelings of
well being
- To promote feelings of security and
reduce anxiety
- For the relief and prevention of
pining and homesickness during a visit to kennels or when owner is away
- For the treatment of grief and
mourning associated with recent loss and separation.
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What else can I do to
help my pet?
- A balanced, high quality diet is very
important during stressful times and can help
to boost your pet’s immune system. We recommend
Life's Abundance Cat and
Life's Abundance Dog
Systems for optimum
nutrition.
- Aromatherapy and massage can help to soothe
and comfort a grief-stricken
and depressed animal.
- While your pet is grieving, try and keep his
home environment as safe and
stress-free as possible. Try not to make any further changes to his
environment
during this time.
- Regular exercise will help to keep your pet
healthy and fit, mentally and
emotionally as well as physically.
- If your pet pines excessively when at the
kennels, investigate other options.
Perhaps you could get a dog-sitter to look after your dog at home or leave him
with a friend while you are away.
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