how to help animals process grief
Just as humans experience grief, animals do too. Since many of our adoptables are in need of a second forever homes after their beloved humans have passed away, they may be grieving. Here are a few ways you can help.
Notice the Signs
Grief may be hard to notice, but it can often involve a change in sleeping patterns, appetite, social behaviour and activity levels. Just as with humans, grief is an individual process which may happen at any time.
Create Routine
The simplest way to help is to create a routine for your animal. Providing meals at consistent times and having a regular bedtime can help your animal adapt and give them the space they need to process grief.
Provide Safe Distractions
An additional way you can help is by providing safe distractions, such as extra attention or new toys. This will help occupy your animals time, which will allow them to work through their grief.
Be Patient
Whether you are a human or an animal, there is no normal time to process grief. It’s important to be patient with your animal and understand they are experiencing a loss the same way you’d be.
If you see extreme changes in your animal, such as a change in behaviour, weight loss, lack of grooming or if they stop eating, it could be more than grief. In these cases, make sure you contact your veterinarian.
Alumni Featured: Daisy
When her beloved human passed away, 17 year-old Daisy was in need of a second forever home — which she found through My Grandfather’s Cat.