Jan discusses helping a grieving pet with essential oils to handle loss.

https://www.facebook.com/PawsPathNJ/videos/vb.1022815251092385/1033645626676014/

It is well documented that the sudden loss of a companion pet can be difficult for the remaining dog or cat in the household.

Our four legged companions not only are responding to their own loss but also perceive and sense our loss and the feeling of grief in the home.

grievingpetOne of the most drastic changes, when one animal in a multi-animal household dies, is the change in the structure of the ‘pack’ hierarchy. Dogs and cats have very well defined social roles, with leaders and followers. Without your/their companion, your remaining pet’s role may be ill-defined.

You may notice a decrease in social interaction, such as hiding or segregating from the family. A decrease or increase in appetite, which can lead to weight loss or gain, can also occur. Some dogs may pace or even look like they are ‘searching’ for their lost loved one. Vocalizing excessively may occur in dogs and cats. Urination and grooming habits may change in cats.

How to Help Your Grieving Pet

1. Engage your dog and cat in a new activity. Positive training is a beneficial way to help your pet learn its new position in the family and this bond and communication make it easy for the pet to look to you for leadership.

2. A training class that uses positive methods or private lessons from a trainer may help you to learn the skills you’ll need.

3. Another thing that is important to helping a grieving dog or cat cope, is increasing the activities it loves to do. For example, a dog that loves to play fetch at the park might benefit from a few more fetch sessions than you normally do. It could be simple things like extra brushing, or getting to ride in the car while you run errands, or maybe a new squeaky toy. For a cat playing with a string or fishing rod toy. Even just a few more minutes of play time can help your dog or cat adjust to life without its companion, and may make you feel better too!

Diffusing essential oils can help keep your household calm.

My favorite combination comes from Dr. Susan Lawton and Rebecca Linder Hintze’s book: Living Healthy & Happily Ever After.

Blend for Grief
25 drops Bergamot
16 drops Roman Chamomile
7 drops Cypress
6 drops Marjoram

Mix up in an empty glass bottle or vial. Diffuse this combination in a nebulizer diffuser, or pour 5-7 drops of oil in a water diffuser and run for 15 minutes per hour when home.