Instructions
Leave animal beds, water bowls and other possessions around for a few days to help the animal understand that the deceased person or animal is permanently gone, in the event of death. According to Small Dog Paradise Website, "This is critical for those dogs who didn't get the chance to see and scent the decreased dog. Give the survivor an opportunity to connect his thoughts and then to depart his feelings."
Stick to your normal routines. An already anxious animal will become more so if the schedule changes. Normality is crucial, even if the animal is dealing with grief caused by big changes in her life such as divorce or a family member moving out.
Give your pet plenty of attention. Make a point to pet and play with him during this time, even more so than usual. The Pet Angel Memorial Center recommends that you also increase the amount of activity for your pet by taking more walks than usual or taking him to a dog park.
Wait a while to introduce a new pet if your animal is grieving the loss of another pet. Wait until the grieving process is complete and the animals has returned to behaving normally.
Seek veterinary care if your pet has trouble eating for an extended time. The ASPCA notes that 36 percent of dogs ate less than normal after a big change. If this behavior continues for more than a couple of weeks, take your pet to the veterinarian.
How to Help Pets Deal With Grief
Animals form bonds with one another, as well as their owners, and become part of one another's daily routine. When another pet in the home dies, or a human family member dies or leaves for some other reason, the remaining pet or pets will suffer emotionally. A 1996 study conducted by The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) found that companion animals go through the stages of grief after the loss of another pet or owner. As with a person, you can help ease this transition.