[Gpdd] Re: Health: Depressed GP

[Michelle Lazarus]

Dear Jennifer,
I am so sorry to hear about your loss.  I went through a similar situation in
february.  My two GPs were very bonded.  Sydney died of heart failure, and
while she was sick, Ella took very good care of her too.  After Syd passed,
Ella was ver "odd" and appeared depressed. . .

so from this experience, I have two-fold advice:
1.  LOVE your remaining piggie.  it needs you now more then ever.  Ella
started cheering up when I spent a few hours each night playing with her. 
she really responded positivley in just a few days.

2.  If possible, get a new GP.  I know that times must be rough for you right
now.  I remember acutally filling out a GP adoption form, trying to read the
questions through tears the day Syd passed away.  It was the hardest thing I
have ever had to do.  But it takes time to find that "right companion for
your remaining GP.  It is a case where it may be best to put your GPs above
the pain that you must be feeling now.  Although time with you is important,
at least from my experience, nothing can replace the companionship of a lost
GP like another GP.  Interestingly, I learned through my ordeal that getting
a new GP similar in size and color aids in the bonding.  Apparently GPs are
more sensitive to appearance that I would have expected.  We went from one
tri-color to another.

As for how long to wait before getting a new GP . . .I was told that you if
your GP is severley depressed, don't wait to long.  If they are only
moderatley depressed wait long enough that the GP knows that her partner
isn't coming back.  This apparently aids in acceptance of the new partner . .
and the rough estimate of time that I was given for this was about two
weeks.

I hope this helps.  And I am sooo sooo sorry for your loss!!!-

Good luck!-
Michelle