I have a Boston Terrier who is distraught over the recent death of his brother, What will cheer him up?

Question

Purchased 2 Boston Terriers 9 years ago and they have been together since birth. One passed away the other day and now the brother who is still alive won't even get up, eat, or move for that matter. I am very worried about him and was wondering if someone could give me some advice on how to ease his depression? I was thinking about getting another puppy but didn't know if that would help or make things worse? Please Advise!

Answer 1

This is from http://www.petplace.com/dogs/do-dogs-mourn/page1.aspx:

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals conducted a Companion Animal Mourning Project in 1996. The study found that 36 percent of dogs ate less than usual after the death of another canine companion. About 11 percent actually stopped eating completely. About 63 percent of dogs vocalized more than normal or became more quiet. Study respondents indicated that surviving dogs changed the quantity and location of sleep. More than half the surviving pets became more affectionate and clingy with their caregivers. Overall, the study revealed that 66 percent of dogs exhibited four or more behavioral changes after losing a pet companion.

If your dog shows signs that she is grieving the loss of an animal or human family member, provide her with more attention and affection. "Try to take her mind off it by engaging her in a favorite activity," says Chretien. If she enjoys human company, invite friends that she likes to visit and spend time with her. Use environmental enrichment techniques such as toys to help keep her busy. Hide toys or treats at her favorite spots for her to find during the day.

If your dog is too depressed over the loss, she may not respond to extra activity right away. The old saying, "Time heals all wounds," has meaning for your dog, too. "Time is one thing that may help," says Chretien. Based on the results of the ASPCA study, most dogs returned to normal after about two weeks but some dogs took up to six months to fully recover.

If you are thinking about adding another dog, wait until you and your surviving dog have adjusted to the loss. Forcing your dog to get to know a newcomer will only add stress to her already anxiety-ridden emotional state. And be patient. Your dog may miss her canine companion as much as you do.

Answer 2

Those dogs were together for an entire life time and it's going to take time for your dog to get over his loss. Just give him extra love and attention, try to do things with him that he enjoys - take him for car rides, walks, whatever he likes to do. Give him a few special treats that he really likes.

I wouldn't recommend getting another puppy yet. Give him time to grieve - he needs it just as much as you do. When you think it's time for a new puppy, you might try having a friend bring a dog over and see how he reacts to a new dog in his house. You don't want to stress him too much. I'm sure he'll be ok with a little time.

Answer 3

Get another puppy. also did u let the dog see or smell the brother. this is their way of letting go. I did this to my rat terrier when my cat died. They were very close. My dog smelled the blanket and layed there for awhile. I feel this helps. Also when i got another cat it was loved and took the place of the other.