Depression and your dog

January 21, 12:23 PMPhoenix Dogs ExaminerDan Olsen

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He always seems so happy to see you; those tender warm eyes that sparkle with merriment and pure joy.  Lately however, he seems just a bit listless.  he's lost his appetite and no longer bounds to greet you when you come in the door.  Is it possible that your dog suffers from depression?

Just like you and me, dogs feel a wide range of emotion, including depression.  The death of a playmate, separation anxiety, little Jane or Johnny is grown up and no longer plays with him like they used to.  These could all be causes of depression for your pooch.

What shoud you do if you suspect your canine companion is moping around the house feeling blue?  Take him to see his vet.

The vet can run blood tests to rule out Canine Coronavirus or Distemper which could also make your pet appear unhappy.  

Once those items are ruled out, try taking your dog on more frequent walks.  In the case of the loss of his playmate, consider dropping him off at a doggy day care, or take him to one of the many dog bark parks in the Phoenix area.  If you've tried all of these options and nothing seems to be pulling him out of his slump discuss the possibility of medications like Prozac for dogs.   

Most importantly, your dog needs your love and support to make it through his rough patches in life.