If you notice changes in your canine or feline’s sleeping habits (sleeps more than usual), eating habits (eats more or less than normal) or various other behavioral habits (for example, lack of socializing with other pets), it may well be because of Depression. Many pets have fallen prey to depression and it is a condition that is very likely to stay on for a very time.
To avoid your pet getting Depressed, it is important to be by his side at all times. And even if your furry pal becomes victim to depression, do not panic because we have tips that can help you cheer him up. Listed below are a few tips that can help you in cheering up your depressed pet.
Spend Some Time with Your Pet
One of the best ways to overcome sadness or depression in pets is to spend some quality time with them. There is no better feeling for a pet than having to spend time with their pet parent (perhaps, food is as important to them as you are). Just your presence, your hugs, your cuddles, etc is more than enough for your pet to feel happy again.
Be Happy To Make Your Pet Feel Happy
Pets are smart and intelligent. They know when you are happy or sad. Seeing you being sad and depressed makes them feel the same too. Similarly, when your pal is sad or depressed, don’t feel unhappy but instead wear a smile on your face. Being happy yourself will, in turn, make your pet feel happy too.
Give Your Pet His Favorite Toy
Another great way to cheer up your depressed pet is to give him his favorite toy. A major chunk of pets has this tendency to find solace in something familiar to them. So giving him his favorite toy can perhaps lift his spirits and make him overcome his depression. And if you happen to not know what his favorite toy is, do not stress, but instead, purchase him any toy as long as it will keep him engrossed.
Indulge Your Pet in Some Outdoor Activities
Indulging your pet in some outdoor activities can help overcome depression. Outdoor activities such as playing fetch, going on walks, running around in the yard, etc can help a great deal in cheering up your sad and depressed pet. Furthermore, it will be better if you the pet parent involve yourself in all these outdoor activities.
Take Your Pet for a Spin
Going for a spin in your car is a good way to cheer up a depressed pet. The cool breeze, the fresh air, and the picturesque views can help calm your depressed pet. Taking him for a ride can help overcome his depression and make him feel happy again. It also helps you spend some more quality time with him. Also, remember to not go for long rides if your pet has motion sickness.
Reward Your Pet for Good Behavior
Lastly, this point may not help in overcoming depression but it can go a long way in preventing it from happening. Whatever little good deeds your buddy does, reward him for that with his favorite snack or meal. This will make him aware that by doing good or being good, he will be rewarded with treats. Depression will then take a back seat and will help him to stay happy and positive.
Depression is never a good thing and needs to be addressed as soon as possible. These few tips can be implemented to kick out depression in your furry friend and help him lead a better life. Also, do not forget to spread the word, and who knows, you might help save a depressed pet!
Read More: Pets Are Best Companion
This post first appeared on Beating Out The Odds Of Your Dog's Bad Behavior, please read the originial post: here
