For many, grief needs little introduction. Somewhere, somehow, the cold and unyielding hand of grief will reach out and touch us all. Every sentient being is capable of experiencing the emotional upheaval and pain grief brings, at some stage of their lives. Therefore it is a very important topic to discuss — it would seem no one is exempt. Animals and humans alike, we all love, we all grieve. Yet, even though grief in animals is well documented in both wildlife (eg. elephants, hippos) and domestics (eg. cats, dogs, horses), it is often overlooked in our animals, sometimes with dire results. DEFINITION: So what is grief? Grief is a natural and intense emotional reaction to the loss of someone or something we love. Grief is a very personal experience and depends on how the loss is perceived. Some animals (and humans) appear unaffected, others adjust and gradually come to terms with their loss, while others still tend to struggle and find it harder to cope. So grief is very idiosyncratic and dependent upon many factors, ie: the type of loss, the meaning of the loss, the griever’s own personal characteristics, the griever’s physical state, and the social support received. Grief can involve a wide variety of feelings and reactions, not solely those that are generally thought of as grief, such as sorrow and depression. It shows itself in all spheres of life, from psychological to social and physical.

When grief gets complicated in our animal friends, we need to give them compassion, understanding, gentle medicines, time, and lots of tender loving care. Their feelings are just as important as ours and to ignore this can lead to future behavioral changes and emotional upsets which all stem from our lack of consideration for them. Being aware of this and having some natural remedies at hand forge new bonds of understanding between you and your animal.

AETIOLOGY:
Change is unavoidable and often creates grief. The main causes of grief are:

Loss of devoted human family member. This may be due to death, divorce, boarding school, child grows up and moves away, animal may be rehomed, kenneled or sold on (ponies, horses) after rider has outgrown them, owner goes on extended holiday or entire family moves overseas and leaves their faithful friend behind.

Loss of another companion animal. This may be in the household, a neighbour or frequent visitor. Due to, for example, death, lost, rehomed, kidnapped / stolen, moves away or could be stillborn or miscarriage. If the mother loses her mate or human carer when pregnant or when suckling, feelings of grief are easily transferred to the fetus / neonate. Early weaning of offspring and premature separation from mother / siblings can all lead to a sense of loss. Consider our calves and cows. Animals also have a natural ability to relate to auras, so they are acutely aware (perhaps sooner than ourselves) when a family member is dying, animal or human. Also, being so perceptive, they often sense the owner’s sorrow and pain too.

Loss from removal of something loved. For example, the removal or loss of a favourite soft-toy, plaything or blanket. Or the loss of affection from a pregnant owner, new mum or when a new animal is introduced to the family. Even the loss of position e.g. a retired police horse / dog, stud animal or when one of the pack dies. Consider too, loss of a limb and desexing.

WHO SUFFERS THE MOST?
The longer and deeper the bond, the more strongly and the longer they are likely to grieve — just like us. However, pets who suffer from separation anxiety when short term separation is thrust upon them are most likely to be hard hit following the demise of their owner.

I mention this last one because it is our duty as a caregiver NOT to feed into a dog’s intense perceived dependence on the owner, but with positive training and a correct relationship we can establish a healthy bond to the benefit of all. This will stand susceptible dogs securely on their own four paws so they are not adrift should anything happen to us.

Grey Friars Bobby was a Skye Terrier owned by Mr J. Gray of Edinborough. Mr Gray passed away in 1858 and was buried at Greyfriars Churchyard where Bobby spent the next 14 years lying on his masters’ grave, till his own death in 1872. A year after Bobbys’ passing, a statue and a fountain were erected to commemorate his loyalty and devotion. When I read this story, it saddens me to think of Bobby mourning and suffering for so long at his masters’ grave, when with a few well chosen remedies and a little tender loving care, Bobby might have lived his life out as a loyal and devoted but happy dog, as his master would have wished him to be. Maybe Bobby was offered help… but he refused it. Either way, this true story goes to prove how animals feel, how they love, how they grieve and their unconditional and enduring friendship.

CLINICAL SIGNS OF MOURNING
The most common signs are:
1. Anorexia / picky eating.
2. Lethargy / lack of energy.
3. Increased / frequent sleeping, especially during the day.
4. Increased vocalisation (barking, howling, whining, whimpering, sighing, meowing) OR becomes very quiet.
5. Increased clinginess or affection to caregivers OR avoidance.

This presents the bigger picture of depression.

Other symptoms include complete loss or interest in favourite activities (play, walks), night time restlessness / insomnia, listlessness, moping about, sulking, disinterest in what’s happening around them, disorientation, aloofness, morose, hiding or distancing themselves from you or other family members, drinking less and weight loss. They may search or pine for their dead companion. A sick / old dog taken to the vet for euthanasia, may see the surviving dog companion sitting at the window for days watching for the return of their mate. Excessive grooming or chewing of household objects may also occur.

“Basil” was a dog whose master moved out after a divorce. Basils’ grieving symptoms included chewing his paws, growling at visitors, urinating inside, fear and anxiety from not having his protective master around. By urinating in the house he was leaving his own scent around which he found reassuring, especially as his masters’scent reduced over time. A pheromone diffuser helped stop this behavior to a certain extent and other natural remedies would help complete the picture.

A surprising sign sometimes seen after another dog has gone is one of happiness / relief / contentment. Some dogs personalities actually blossom after the loss of another dog — we don’t always realize how much stress a relationship with another dog is placing on one or both dogs. When one of them is gone (death, rehoming), the other may do much better.

Around 70% of all dogs exhibit at least 4 behavioural changes after losing a loved one. Most come right after 2 or so weeks but some take up to 6 months or longer.

Diagnosis: Dehydration and weight loss are serious issues and left unaddressed, grief and depression can actually be life-threatening. It’s not enough to assume that your pet will eat or drink when hungry or thirsty — that’s not necessarily the case with a grieving animal. Take your pet into see a vet for a check-up. Symptoms of depression are very similar to symptoms of illness, so don’t assume this is a behavioural condition when it could be medical. If it is grief, a natural animal therapist or veterinary homeopath can play a unique role in this situation.

Orthodox Treatment: Medication, namely anti-depressants, are used in the conventional treatment of grief / depression. Either older tricyclic anti-depressants like amitriptyline (Elavil) or imipramine, or more modern anti-depressants like fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft) and paroxetine (Paxil) can be used. Each has its own unique advantages in terms of mood elevation and stabilization; and each has its own slightly different therapeutic profile and list of potential side effects.

Tricyclic anti-depressants do not blunt the overall normal behavioural responses to environmental stimuli to the same degree that phenothiazine tranquillisers do.

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors include the human drugs fluoxetine (Prozac) and paroxetine (Paxil). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter identified as playing a significant role in determining mood and behavior, and they enhance the effect of the serotonin by blocking its removal from the synaptic cleft.

The most commonly used anti-depressant by vets today is clomipramine (Clomicalm), a tricyclic anti-depressant. This drug can however, lower seizure threshold, has anticholinergic effects like dry mouth, tachycardia, and adverse effects such as emesis, diarrhea,anorexia, lethargy and depression! Cats are more sensitive to clomipramine than dogs.

For horses, diazepam (Valium) reduces anxiety and stimulates appetite and produces a quick effect. Prozac is used for long term maintenance. The combination of Valium followed by Prozac is used to reduce severe grief that may endanger horses to colic, dehydration, or other metabolic concerns that are made worse by depression.

Orthodox Prognosis: Animals on orthodox medication for grief usually show improvement, though the therapeutic effects may take several weeks to be seen. Unfortunately, adverse effects can occur early on in treatment and with prolonged treatment there is also the risk of addiction or reliance with these drugs. Often the problem is merely masked and can occur when the drugs are stopped. I am aware of at least one vet who has better results when Rescue Remedy is given along with the allopathic medication!

THE HOLISTIC PERSPECTIVE
Approach to the condition.
Fortunately there are many ways to help your grieving animal. Sometimes patience and compassion are all that is needed – remember the saying “Time heals all wounds.” Though this may be true, it is also a truth that sometimes, doing the time is the hard part. Here is where natural and holistic remedies come to the fore. They have a positive effect on emotional health and well-being. Herbal and homeopathic remedies are safe, non-addictive and gentle to use on the bodily system without harmful side effects. Nutrition too, can help turn the situation around and restore vitality back to your pet.

HOMEOPATHY:
The most important homeopathic remedy for immediate effects of grief is IGNATIA. Ignatia will not block the grief experience but it can lighten the load somewhat and allow the individual to accept and integrate the changes in their life. Ignatia can also help in some cases where grief is in the past but the patient has not finished letting go. Those needing this remedy tend to sigh a lot, they grieve silently, they are adverse to consolation and can quickly go from happy to sad.

Nat. Mur. Is another major grief remedy and is very useful for illnesses resulting from unresolved grief — usually a chronic condition. (Grief is often at the heart of a sudden occurrence of chronic disease, seen for example, in animals that develop diabetes.) Natrum muriaticum individuals are very sensitive by nature, they too, are adverse to company and consolation. They are very introverted which arises from a feeling of great vulnerability to emotional injury. They are usually thirsty. Often a cat remedy.

Staphysagia. Also used for ailments from grief and suppression is a main feature. These animals are very sensitive and also extremely sweet and gentle. They suppress their feelings, especially anger / grief / disappointment. This can lead to outbursts of anger or violence, which renders them sad, irritable and depressed. The remedy to give after desexing.

Kali. Phos. This tissue cell salt helps to strengthen the nervous system and maintain its equilibrium. It also helps to increase the bioavailability of nutrients, hormones and certain neurotransmitters essential to ensure a balanced mood and feelings of well-being and vitality. These animals are aggravated by the cold, but feel better after rest, food and warmth. They do not like to be alone.

Other homeopathic remedies:
Phos. Ac. For illness from unresolved grief. Apathetic, indifferent.
Causticum: Insecure, very sensitive, weakness from grief, friendly but then becomes inhibited.
Lachesis: May feel abandoned, forsaken, fears being left alone, very vocal.
Arg. Nit: Melancholic, soothes nerves and supports nervous system, promotes digestive health.

Also consider: Aconite, Aurum, Carcinogen, Cocculus, Nux. Vom, Phos, Puls, Sepia.

HERBAL MEDICINE: These properties will help alleviate grief
Adaptogens — have a toning effect on the adrenal glands when stressed, helping the body to cope and to regulate stress. Examples include Ginseng, Oats, Withania.

Nervine Tonics — nourish and assist nerves where there is stress or nervous debility. Examples are Oats, St John’s Wort.

Nervine Relaxants — assist with tension and stress and promote sleep. Examples are Chamomile, Lavender, Skullcap, Valerian, Passionflower, Lemon Balm.

Nervine Stimulants — increase strength and vitality, eg. Peppermint, Ginseng, Rosemary (also a relaxant).

Sedatives — calm the nervous system, reduce stress and nervous debility, eg. Chamomile, Skullcap, Valerian, St John’s Wort, Passionflower.

Hypnotics — induce a deep healing sleep, eg. mild-Chamomile, Lime Blossom, stronger-Valerian, Skullcap, Passionflower (BHP specific for insomnia).

Immune Support — stress lowers immunity, eg. Garlic, Echinacea.

Aromatics — to stimulate the digestive system if anorexic, eg. Lemon Balm, Chamomile, Valerian, Rosemary or

Bitters — for the same reason, eg. Dandelion root, Hops, Camomile.

Carminatives — also increase the appetite and gastric secretions, eg. Fennel, Peppermint, Chamomile, Lemon Balm.

Anti-spasmodics — affect the peripheral nerves and muscle tissue so indirectly relax the whole body. Useful if grief has gone deep and the animal is experiencing body twitches or spasms, eg. Chamomile, Skullcap, Valerian, Vervain, Lemon Balm.

A closer look at Oats (Avena sativa) tells us they are a good choice. Aside from being adaptogenic they are also anti-depressive (BHP specific for depressive states) and thymoleptic — meaning there is a combined action of toning and restoring the nervous system and at the same time inducing a feeling of well-being. This is achieved through its nutritive properties — high in Vitamin A and B complex and minerals silicon, calcium, iron, potassium and phosphorus, as well as through the other active constituents like alkaloids which have a slightly stimulating effect while still helping to induce sleep.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) is considered a tonic (trophorestorative) for the nervous system and is indicated where the nervous system has become depleted. It is high in calcium which is a natural tranquilliser, potassium which is necessary for calm nerves and magnesium which relieves anxiety, tension, nervousness and muscle spasms. The volatile oils influence the central nervous system (CNS) where the calming power goes deep into the psyche.

St John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is a well known anti-depressant useful also for insomnia, anxiety and mood swings. Among its compounds are hypericin and dianthrone derivatives, which work together to inhibit monoamineoxidase. When this enzyme is suppressed, brain levels of serotonin increase. Seratonin is a neurotransmitter that maintains normal mood and emotional stability.

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) and Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) can attribute their calming, relaxing and soothing properties due to the action on the CNS brought about by their volatile oils — matricin, a proazulene in Chamomile and citronellal in Lemon Balm, which displays sedative and spasmolytic effects. Both of these herbs are very safe and gentle to use, making them a good choice for the very young or elderly griever.

Bach Flowers: These resonate with the emotional body to re-establish equilibrium and harmony — they are safe, gentle and effective. Often Rescue Remedy, useful for shock, sorrow and stress, will be of great help. Try to administer 3-4 times daily directly into their mouths or add to food or their water bowl.

For more specific remedies, try a combination of any of the following:

Star of Bethlehem: For effects of shock, sorrow, grief. Cannot be consoled. Emotional trauma in loss, especially those that mate for life. It unblocks emotions and relieves the mind of sadness — remember it’s important to allow the feelings of grief and not to suppress or deny them.

Honeysuckle — indicated if animal is sulking after the loss of a loved master or mate, especially animals that mate for life. Lack of interest in the present. Replenishes depleted energies.

Chicory — clingy, overly possessive, craves your attention. For the animal that is emotionally unable to let go of a devoted master or mate that they were very attached too.

Water Violet — especially for cats – grief when master / mate dies, a quiet loner, suffers in silence, adverse to company.

Sweet Chestnut — extreme anguish, despair. Soul suffering after loss. Sits still, in a trance-like state, eyes “switched off”. A void –feels so alone.

Gentian — glum, sad, despondent, set backs, animal worse with the effects when all babies born dead.

Pine— for animals that are given away or left behind, need much verbal reassurance, feels unworthy, despondent.

Heather — greedy for attention, in your face, doesn’t like to be alone, disguising a deep loneliness or unloved feeling.

Clematis — sleeping heavily, vacant far away look, indifferent, lack of vitality, prefers to be alone.

Wild Rose — apathy, unhappy, no interest/vitality. Inner collapse.

Nutrition: Many nutrients are depleted by stress so it is important to nourish the nerves with vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids (EFA’s).

Vitamin B Complex — helps maintain a normal nervous system and it’s functions. Has a calming effect on the nerves.

Vitamin C — the stress vitamin, for proper adrenal gland function and brain chemistry. Powerful tranquillising effect.

Minerals such as Magnesium, Calcium (see “Skullcap”) and Potasium for nerve tranquillisation and Phosphorus for nerve function are all depleted by stress.

A natural wholesome diet will provide all of these nutrients. Include fruits (apples, apricots, melons, berries, banana, avocado, kiwifruit) and leafy green vegetables, broccoli, raw nuts and seeds, blackstrap molasses, brown rice, whole grains, eggs, yoghurt and cottage cheese. Add fresh herbs especially garlic to boost the immune system. Small amounts of organ meats like a sliver of liver or kidneys provide protein, vitamins, minerals and EFA’s. Brews of nettle or oats and kelp or karengo are also excellent for supporting the nervous system.

Remember your pet may be suffering from anorexia or loss of appetite so make their diet as interesting and varied as possible. Although it is a good idea to limit the intake of animal protein so other foods can be offered, fats and proteins from meats are very palatable, easily digested and energy dense, so if your pet is only eating small amounts then energy dense food is paramount. Don’t forget the fresh raw meaty bones!

The main thing is to get them to eat something! Don’t be too restrictive, but do avoid foods containing sugar or excess salt, eg. commercial, processed foods. Check the labels! Always insure there is a clean, fresh supply of water readily accessible.

If your animal is still reluctant to eat try the following:
• Warm the food to about body temperature.
• Give small frequent meals throughout the day.
• Feed their favourite food or treats.
• Tempt with “smelly foods” ie. sardines, to encourage the smell stimulus.
• Try hand feeding if necessary.
• Seek professional help if after a few days they are still not eating and / or drinking.

Finally, the EFA’s Omega’s 3 and 6 play an important part in cell function and help to treat depression by increasing vitality and energy. Give a good quality supplement, either capsule form, into their food or give them a small amount of hemp oil which contains both of these omegas. Otherwise, sunflower, safflower, borage, blackcurrant or evening primrose oils all contain Omega 6, and cold water oily fish like salmon, herrings, sardines and mackerel all contain Omega 3’s as does flax seeds.

AROMATHERAPY:
Essential oils play an important role in psychoneuroimmunology — the olfactory nerve is imbedded in the brain and has direct connections to limbic structures of the brain, particularly the hippocampus which plays a key role in emotion and memory.

Examples:
Lavender: for anxiety, depression, shock, stress, insomnia.

Marjoram: soothes, comforts, calms, eases grief and worry. Not for use if pregnant.

Neroli: assists in relieving depression, grief, shock, hysteria. Promotes deep restful sleep. Helps to “open the heart” and embrace and transform negative emotions.

Tangerine: brings in cheer and light, assists in adjusting and adapting to life changes. Stimulates the digestive process.

Roman Chamomile: gentle, calming, promotes a sense of inner peace. Stimulates the immune system, aids digestion and induces a restful sleep.

Massage: Massage stimulates and reassures, giving you and your animal a close intimate connection and strengthens your bond with each other. Try the Tellington T- Touch to soothe away depression. Move your pet’s skin in a clockwise direction, making small circles starting at “6 pm” and finishing at “8 pm”. Take a few seconds to complete each circle – do this all over their body, especially on the ears, face and neck. Animals love this.

CRYSTAL THERAPY:
Place in a small pouch attached to the collar. Energy emanating from these gems has a subtle therapeutic effect.

Lapis Lazulis: overcomes depression, protective.
Carnelian: protects against anxiety, fear, sorrow, apathy.
Rose Quartz: stone of gentle love, calms, heals emotions.

COLOUR THERAPY:
This field of vibrational medicine works on the whole energetic level of living things. Using a treatment lamp is the easiest way, especially when they are sleeping, or clip it onto a cage where your pet is held if possible.

Red: heightens hunger, good to stimulate the appetite.
Blue: tranquillising effect, promotes a better sleep.
Green: promotes health and relaxation, calming, soothing.
Yellow: cheering, pick-me-up colour, stimulating.

If you are thinking about adding another pet, wait until you and the surviving animal have adjusted to the loss and are both emotionally ready. Forcing your dog to get to know a newcomer can add stress and resentment to their already anxiety-ridden emotional state. But there are no hard and fast rules. Some depressed dogs perk up and become very friendly with the new edition, while others completely reject it. If you do think you’d like to add another dog to your family, introduce the potential pet to your current one on neutral territory first to see how they react. If the interaction is a non- desirable one, wait a few months and try again.

HOLISTIC PROGNOSIS:
By supporting your grieving animal with the methods discussed in this paper, they WILL adjust to life without their loved one. Remember the importance of tender loving care, time and patience. When even only these are lavished on our grieving animals, we acknowledge them and validate their grief, thereby helping them through the process. If remedies are called for, then we know help is at hand with safe and gentle medicines. Grief isn’t something you get over — the best you can do when it is a big loss is try to get used to it. The aim is to find a way to live with it; you don’t have to like it. Our animals are affected this way too and just like us, they can achieve up-lifting results and carry on with their lives, with the help of natural therapies and understanding.

CONCLUSION:
There is a lot of support available for those grieving. Sadly, many people still think animals have no feelings — “he’s just a dog” they say, and similarily, some people can’t understand the grief animal lovers experience when their beloved pet dies —“he’s only a dog”. Animal lovers know better, so remember to remedy yourself as well as your pet if you are struggling with your grief. When you have done the work of grieving and helped your animal friend deal with grief and the life adjustments, then you can both come out of even very hard loss, ready to truly open your hearts and love again.

BIBLIOGRAPHY:
www.animalrights.com
www.thoroughbredtimes.com
www.veterinarypartner.com
www.nativeremedies.com
www.accessmylibrary.com
www.petplace.com

Natural Dog Care – C. Yarnall.
Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs – D. Hamilton.
Healthy Options, S. Urwin Dec “96.
Aromatherapy – Sunspirit.
Crystal Guide – M. Pawson.
The Holistic Herbal – D. Hoffman.
Materia Medica of Western Herbs – G. Painter
St Francis College study notes, Herbal, Homeopathy, Year 1-3, Therapeutics, Year 3
Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics – Robert L. Bill
The Vitamin and Mineral Guide – Heinermann
St Francis College study notes, Nutrition and Bach Flowers.
Power of Colour – Galina Pembroke
Nick Sygrove BVSc.

This final paper and years of study I dedicate to: “HOLLY” 14 Feb 1991 – 11 Feb 2008 A true friend and a great teacher. The best biggest blackest dog ever.