Grief in Domestic Animals

Grief in Domestic Animals
 
Animals experience grief when losing a friend and a lot of the times this grief goes unnoticed as they do not display grief in the same ways as we do.  In fact, some people believe that animals do not grieve.
 
Every animal grieves differently, however there are certain universal sign:
Dogs or cats grieving the loss of a friend:

1. They may eat less, or not eat all.
2. They may sleep more.
3. They may be more listless.
4. They may not want to play.
5. They may hide.
6. They may move around more slowly.
7. They may withdraw from people and more.

 
Horses show their grieving slightly differently to cats and dogs:

1. They may wait at the gate for their friend.
2. They may exhibit reduced social interaction.
3. They may eat less.
4. Sometimes they are just a litter quieter overall which can go unnoticed.

Here is a beautiful article about wild horses and their grief:
​https://www.horsetalk.co.nz/2018/07/04/wild-horses-death-grief-insight/
 
How do we help our animals in their time of grief?

1. Tell them that you can see how losing their friend has affected them and that you are here for them.
2. Share stories of their friend with them and talk to them in a calm voice.  I do believe in crying with your animal, however you do not want them to get overwhelmed by your grief as well, so please be aware of this.
3. Do different activities with them.  Perhaps a walk in a new place, or a something new to learn or focus on.
4. Do more of what your animal already loves.
5. Use essential oils specifically for grief during this time.

 
Essential Oils and Grief
One of the easiest ways to use essential oils during this time of grief is a diffuser.  I use the Diffuser with the intermittent function of 5 min on and 5 min off, which is the best for animals. When we use diffusers we always make sure the animals can leave the area and we never close them in with the diffuser on.
One of the oils I recommend for grief in the diffuser is Wild Orange as it is well known for use in depression in animals as it is a very uplifting oil and has numerous benefits.


If you would like a consultation with me or to find out when my next class is, please contact me on ingridliberte.loveofanimals@gmail.com or +27 76 941  4079
 
​​The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for vet care.  The statements made about the essential oils, blends, recipes, and products mentioned have not been evaluated by the FDA.  The information given is not intended to diagnose treat or cure or prevent disease.  It is always recommended to consult with a vet or healthcare professional.