THE NEW BARKER 67
www.TheNewBarker.com
Locally-Owned & Loved
For more than 30 years, Country Oaks Animal Hospital &
Boarding Kennel has been caring for family pets. Owned and
operated by Elizabeth Baird, DVM, CCVP, CCRT, CVMA
Full Service Veterinary Hospital | Boarding Kennel
Personalized Service | Extraordinary Medical & Surgical Care
1412 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor
727.785.6524 | www.CountryOaksAnimalHospital.com
SPECIALISTS IN PAIN MANAGEMENT & PHYSICAL THERAPY
Our goal is to help your pet by diminishing their pain and increasing mobility and function.
Treating pets with:
Hip Dysplasia | Cruciate Injuries (all phases) | IV Disc Disease
Degenerative Myelopathy | Orthopedic and Spinal Disorders
Owned and operated by Elizabeth Baird, DVM, CCVP, CCRT, CVMA
Certified in Pain Management, Rehabilitation and Acupuncture
1412 Belcher Road, Palm Harbor | 727.785.4878 | www.SteelePainCenter.com
3. Encourage Social Interaction (if appropriate):
While some pets may withdraw and isolate themselves,
others may benefit from increased social interaction. If you
have other pets in the household, encourage them to inter-
act in positive ways, but be mindful of their feelings. Do not
rush to introduce a new pet or force interaction before your
grieving pet is ready. In some cases, surviving pets might
form closer bonds with other animals in the household,
while others may need time to adjust. If your pet seems
open to socializing, gently encourage playtime or short
walks with other pets. However, don’t force anything. Let
the surviving pet set the pace.
4. Monitor Their Health: Grief can affect a pet’s
physical health, especially when it causes a decrease in
appetite or activity. Be sure to monitor your pet for any signs
of illness, and if you notice any concerning changes in their
health (such as sudden weight loss, vomiting, or lethargy),
consult your veterinarian.
If your pet has stopped eating or drinking, encourage
them by offering their favorite foods or treats. Sometimes,
providing extra warmth or a cozy space can help them feel
more comfortable and secure.
5. Offer Comfort Objects: For some pets, a familiar
item that belonged to their lost companion can provide
comfort. This could be a blanket, a toy, or even their sibling’s
collar. Placing these items in your pet’s favorite resting spots
may help them feel a connection to the pet they have lost.
While it’s important to give your grieving pet space to
mourn, comfort items can provide a sense of emotional
security. If they seem to find comfort in a particular object,
let them keep it nearby.
6. Be Patient with the Healing Process: Just like
humans, pets grieve in their own way and in their own time.
The grieving process for animals may take weeks or even
months. During this time, patience is key. While your pet
may begin to show signs of improvement, they may still have
moments of sadness or confusion.
Allow your pet to grieve at their own pace, and don’t
rush them to “move on” or “get over it.” Healing is a slow
process, and they will eventually come to terms with the loss
in their own way.
7. Consider Professional Help if Needed: If your
pet’s grief is severe or you notice extreme changes in behav-
ior (such as aggression, withdrawal, or constant anxiety), it
may be helpful to consult a veterinarian or animal behavior-
ist. In some cases, grief can trigger behavioral or emotional
disorders that require professional intervention.Veterinarians
may also offer advice on calming products or medications
that can help reduce anxiety and stress in grieving pets.
Conclusion: Helping Your Pet Heal: The grief of a
surviving pet should not be overlooked, and understanding
their emotional needs during this challenging time is cru-
cial. Remember that pets may not express their grief in the
same way humans do, but they still feel pain and sadness. By
being there for them with comfort and patience, you pro-
vide the love and reassurance they need to heal, just as you
do for yourself. U
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