Guest post by Mariah G.
Getting a pet can
seem like a great idea because they can be such beneficial companions. Just the
thought of coming home to a wagging tail, purring, and snuggling can seem like
the ideal way to end a long day. Pets can be the best therapy for us humans at
times, especially since they can sense our emotional changes. But sometimes our
pets need us because they can get sad too. Pet depression is very real and
should be concerning to owners. There are several things that can cause our
furry friends to become not so excited anymore.
Pets are very similar to people in that they get used to the presence of
others. They interact not only with humans but with other animals as well. So
just like humans, when someone they are very close to is no longer present,
they can start to become depressed. It may not be very obvious at first, but
subtle changes in the way your pet does certain things may be an indication
that they are depressed.
Causes of depression can include, but
are not limited to:
A family member moving out - A family member dying
- A pet companion passing away or leaving the home
- Being left alone for long periods of time
- Lack of attention (i.e. newborn baby, demanding job, etc.)
- Moving to a different place
- Emotional change in an owner
Signs and Symptoms of depression can
include, but are not limited to:
- Changes in eating habits
- Lack of energy or excitement
- Anxiety
- Weight loss
- Withdrawn behavior
If you know that there are upcoming changes in your household that might
trigger depression in your pet, then you may want to try something to prevent
that from happening. You could start a new routine with your pet that makes
them happy to try and keep them engaged in the new activity and not pay as much
attention to the changes. If you have a senior pet that might pass away soon,
you can try introducing a new animal into the home and see if your current pets
like the new companion. Or you can even visit a Holistic Vet here at Carolina
Pets Animal Hospital and get some advice about possible preventative methods.
Although your pet may
become depressed, there are several things you can do to try and get them back
to their normal self. Keep in mind that the timeframe in which it takes them to
bounce back can vary depending on the animal, as well as the severity of the
event that caused the depression. Try engaging your pet in activities that they
normally like. Go for walks/runs with them. Give them extra TLC and attention. Bring
out their favorite toys and have play sessions. Take them for a car ride and
give them praise if they start to show signs of happiness. Alternative methods
such as medicine may be needed to assist your pet with its depression. The
staff at Carolina Pets offers a variety of affordable vet services to make it
easy on you and your pet!
Picture Credits:
Bernese: http://bit.ly/1W6iZ7F
Beagle: http://bit.ly/1p5jHH9
Brittany
Mielcarek- Callisto with Tennis Ball
