Signs of Depression in your Dog and How to help

I am sure you have seen it in their eyes. Your gonna leave aren't you!

For most of us it is hard to leave our pets and head off to work or other activities. We get the look and then think, "This dog really knows how to
pull my strings."
When I got into the pet services business I had no idea how lonely and board our dogs can get while we are away. In some cases getting a play mate is a great idea. All dogs love company. Socializing takes the pain out of being alone. Not all dogs have the advantage of having a playmate or having someone at home most of the day. That sad look you get could be a sign of depression. Being alone isn't always the cause of depression. There are a lot of anxiety's in a dogs world today. If you notice your canine companion exhibiting dog depression symptoms, it's possible that your pet is experiencing anxiety or temporary depression due to a recent event. However, it's also possible that the symptoms you are observing could be a sign that something else is going on with your pet, such as a physical illness or chemical imbalance. When you notice your dog exhibiting signs of depression, consider whether or not something has occurred recently that could impact his or her mood. If not, or if the symptoms last for an extended period of time, it's advisable to take your dog to the veterinarian.

Signs of depression include;

* Lethargy
* Excessive sleep
* Being clingy
* Loss of appetite
* Change in personality
*Whining
* Weight loss

In most cases the sadness you see is just that sadness. Our canine friends whole world can revolve around us. while very different from us dogs are strikingly similar to people in many ways. A case of the blues, and even outright depression, is but one more malady we share. As humans, we can rationalize our feelings, try to understand them, and seek a way out. Our dogs aren't so lucky. They often need our help, and our love and involvement, to break out of the cycle.

It sounds trite, but usually what your dog needs is love and affection. They may not just snap out of it on their own, but given a little effort and patience, they can regain their emotional footing. Here are some things you can do to help:

Set aside more time together for play. If your dog isn't normally an active player, take more frequent walks outside, or devote more time to another favorite activity.
Buy some engaging new toys--a cube that releases dog food when played with, for example.
Take a trip to the park to see other dogs, or go for a ride in the car. (If your dog's a nervous traveler or only associates the car with a trip to the vet or the kennel, obviously this might not be a great idea).
If your dog has lost a pet companion, consider getting another. Another option is to call a neighbor with a dog and set up a play date.
If you leave your dog home alone during the day, consider a cage-free daycare (if their normally sociable), or hire a dog sitter to walk them.
Sit on the floor at night while you watch TV, rather than in a chair. Getting down on her level could be just the interaction she's looking for.

Don't expect miracles. Be patient. It may take a few days, or it may take considerably longer for your dog to return to his or her normal self. One thing is certain: you are the best companion they have, and the most important one during this time.

Love to hear your thoughts and may be some of the remedies you have used to bring your pup around. Leave your comments below or email me with your story.