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Depression in DogsThere is such a thing as depression in dogs. Dogs can get depressed just like we do.
Depression is a natural emotion, and it is undeniable that dogs have emotional ups and downs. A study by University of Portsmouth has found that emotions like pride,
embarrassment, shame and jealousy have been observed in dogs and other domesticated animals (e.g. cats, horses, rabbits, hamsters). As depression is another natural
emotion, we can quite safely assume that dogs can suffer from depression as well.
My family's old dog adored my brother, and when my brother left home to go to college, our dog was visibly depressed. Every day, he was mopping around the house,
sleeping most of the time in front of the door, and very often would not touch his food...
Luckily, most dogs can get out of depression after a while. However, if a dog cannot recover from depression, it can lead to physical ailments due to a weakened immune
system. So, should we give a depressed dog anti-depressants such as Prozac? The idea of loading my dog - any dog - with chemicals is unthinkable. There are milder
remedies which are just as, if not more, effective.
But first, let's look at some of the possible causes of depression in dogs.
Causes of Depression in DogsChanges in Environment According to Dr. Raymond Van Lienden, DVM, a veterinarian at The Animal Clinic of Clifton, Va., change is almost always the cause of canine depression. Examples of changes in the dog's environment include:
Symptoms of Depression in Dogs
When dogs are depressed, they usually look sad and mopey, sleep most of the time, and lose interest in even their favorite toys or games. They will probably show some of these signs as well:
Natural Remedies for Depression in DogsNatural remedies, such as herbs, flower essences, and homeopathy are extremely effective in lifting the spirits of depressive dogs. They are safe and mild; therefore they do not have the side-effects of conventional anti-depressants. They calm, soothe, and help the dog feel better without making the animal "crash" or groggy. Homeopathy If your dog has become depressed due to grief (e.g. loss of a family member), try giving him the remedy Ignatia, which is very effective in helping dogs shake their grief. Dogs needing this remedy sleep a lot and may not eat. You can give one or two drops of this remedy (30C) to your dog for 2 to 3 days. If he does not feel any better, consult a holistic vet before going up to the next higher dose. Herb The herb St.-John's wort has been used for a long time with good results on people suffering from depression. It can also be used safely whenever your dog feels depressed, anxious or tense. St.-John's wort is available in tinctures.
Other Ways to Deal with Depression in DogsSpend More Quality Time with the Dog Perhaps the most important thing that we should do to help a depressed dog is to show him love and care. Spending more time playing with the dog, taking long walks together, and bonding with the dog can greatly help lift his spirit. Get the Dog a New Playmate If your dog is griefing the death of another dog in your family, consider replacing it with a new dog. If that is not possible, try to let your dog socialize with other dogs (at a park, or doggie day care, etc.).References D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999). H. Graham and G. Vlamis, Bach Flower Remedies for Animals (Findhorn Press, 2004). A.D. Shojai, New Choices in Natural Healing for Dogs and Cats (Rodale Press, Inc., 1999) TOP OF Depression in Dogs |
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