| The loss of a beloved pet can cause an overwhelming loss, not only
for the human family, but for other pets in the family as well. There is an empty
void caused by a large change in routine. No longer is there the familiar nuzzle,
the usual walks, the grooming and feeding. The family finds it hard to stop discussing
the pet as if it were still alive. Other pets look for the pet that they do their
usual routines with. This is a normal sense of loss. Your veterinarian
can provide you with many helpful books dealing with grief and depression. There
are many ways of memorializing your pet, such as pet cemeteries and cremation.
Again, your veterinarian can provide you with the names of organizations dealing
with these topics. One very bad thing a family can do is replacing someone's
lost pet for them before they are ready to have it replaced. The person needs
to have their time for mourning. It is not fair to the new pet to be put in a
situation where it may not get the love and devotion it may need. If you,
a family member or another pet are experiencing an extremely bad time dealing
with the loss of your beloved pet, it may be wise to consult your own family physician
or your veterinarian. Watch yourself, your family, and other pets for loss of
appetite, excessive sleeping to avoid the issue, loss of ambition or motivation,
constant touching or contact with the lost pets possessions. These are signs of
depression and they should be dealt with by professionals. -------------------------------------------------
// ------------------------------------------------ Reprinted with permission
by Terrie Simpson | 
