Saying good-bye to an animal friend can be very difficult. The unconditional love shared over a lifetime is like no other. It is a truly special gift, that remains forever & always within us. Other pets may grieve for the loss of a companion too. Cats grieve for dogs, and even dogs for cats. Spending more time with surviving pets, giving them more attention and affection will help everyone. Hugs help! You may be surprised too see that one surviving pet comes to enjoy being "top dog". Remember, all good things take time. There will come a time when a remembrance of the love (still) shared makes you smile. In the meantime, you might try adding a few drops of Rescue Remedy to the water bowl as it is freshened daily, (an all natural herbal formula widely used to reduce stress and anxiety in pets, and people too). Dr Allen would be happy to help with any worry you may have about your lost pet or with surviving pets. If there comes a day you consider bringing a new friend home, not to replace the one lost, but to start, in building a new loving, lifelong relationship, Dr Allen would also be happy to help you. However, if you were referred to Dr Allen for end of life services at home by your regular vet, she will not be available to be your new vet.
The Association for Pet Loss and Bereavement, www. aplb.org
Bereavement Resources for Pet Loss, www.catanddoghelp.com
Wisdom for Pet Parents, www.veterinarywisdomforparents.com
Argus Institute of the Colorado State Veterinary School, www.argusinstitute.colostate.edu/grief
Tufts Veterinary School Pet Loss Support Hotline, 508-839-7966, www.tufts.edu/vet/petloss