Is my pup depressed?

[Vinni]

As some of you know I lost my beloved 12 1/2 year old Shih-Tzu pup Alex on January 8th 2007. Alex had been ill for a long time, but that still does not make it any easier.

However, since Alex has been gone my 2 1/2 year old shih-Tzu pup Audrey has been acting funny. She is not nearly as playful seems to be wining a bit under her breath, is sleeping much more and has kinda stopped eating. She just nibbles at her food and only eats well if I give her "people food". So I have been adding lean meats and veggies to her all natural kibble. Which I did anyway. but I know I use to go through 2 bowls of kibble daily (I free feed) when Alex was with us. Could Alex have been eating it all and I just did not realize? Audrey is only 6lbs.

Now due to the age difference and Alex's health issues Audrey never really bothered with Alex and vice versa. It was a rare occassion to see them together, hence why I love my Avatar so much, the two of them together (Alex is standing) was rare. Audrey actually is more buddy buddy with our cat.

Now other than this she seems fine, so I am reluctant to take her to the vet; and it is not due to money it is just that I don't think I can bear to go there again so soon after Alex passed there.

But I do not want to put her health at risk due to my own depression.

So I thought I'd ask what you all think, could she be depressed, if so what can I do to help, and how long will this last? Is this common, I don't know Alex is my first loss (and it tottally STINKS).

Thanks

[Dax]

I think the answer is yes. It's still a loss to her. I did the same mistake of offering human food to Dax when we lost our shepherd. It made her a picky eater. What helped was when we got Ariel who played vaccum cleaner with any food left anywhere.

My suggestion would be to get more active with her. Take her out for walks or get involved in agility. As for the food, leave it down but don't offer anything else. Hopefully the added activity will increase her appetite too.

[bernicesmama]

I would think she is bummed about losing her buddy. try to give her more to do besides think about being alone, and i'd nix the people food. too easy for a dog that size to get overweight.

good luck

[Heart_Song]

She is likely depressed because you are more than anything else. Pets often feed off the emotions of their people.

At just 6lbs, I wouldn't expect her to eat much. A cup of dry kibble at the most. As long as she is eating, I wouldn't worry too much about how much she is eating.

But I agree with Dax about increasing her activity. I think it will do both of you good during this time.

Sorry for your loss. Best wishes to both of you.

[SalemsMom]

Vinni,most likely she is depressed,but even thoughit would be hard on you,I think I would have her looked at to rule out anything else,have you taken her temp?like everyone said,its probably just depression,but for my own peace of mind,that is just my opinion.

[Vinni]

Thanks everyone,

Her temp is fine, she is just bummed out I guess. Due to her size and the issue with Alex's neck (I was told these pups have neck issues and should not be on a leash) as well as the size of this yard (like a football field) I have never really walked Audrey, we just run around the back yard or toss balls inside and out. But Audrey always got her "toy". She has not gotten a toy for me to toss her in about 10 days. Thinking maybe I should get one for her.

Let hope that works...she looks so pittiful...poor pup

if not I will call/visit the vet.

[old horse mom]

I am sure she is sad just as you are. I think everyone gave you good advice. Even though she didn't play with the other dog, the older dog was 'there'- quiet company for her. Maybe this will be a time for you two to bond more. Sorry you lost a friend.

[Vinni]

Originally Posted by old horse mom

I am sure she is sad just as you are. I think everyone gave you good advice. Even though she didn't play with the other dog, the older dog was 'there'- quiet company for her.

That is what I was wondering, so she can still miss him, be sad/depressed enve though she never paid him much attention, and vice versa?

Is depression the reason she won't lay on his section of the couch too?

[Blaze]

I'm so sorry you lost Alex! I don't know much about depression in dogs, but Lilly has gotten that way at times - and keeping her busy always helped her. I hope Audrey gets happier again soon.

[mara]

I believe they sense any changes in the household including "picking up the vibes" of the humans. I'm sure she misses him being there. I sure hope she feels better soon!