my 7 year old JRT lost his 14 year old playmate 2 weeks ago today, he seemed ok at first but the last week he as become withdrawn, retreating to his various dens over the house and avoiding any contact with us, he hasn't eaten for 2 days and although we can entice him out to play ball he soon retreats again.

I just don't know what to do to help him, he is so sad and seems to have lost interest in everything.

any experience of pining and tips to try and help greatly appreciated.

Is there anyone in the family or friends who have a dog you can perhaps arrange to meet up with out on a walk, to encourage him to interact and play with. They could perhaps meet you outside in the street and see if it will encourage him and perhaps play once you get to a park or safe area. If he is missing his cannine friend it might just help draw him out of himself a bit.

As regards to getting him to each. Im guessing you have probably tried it perhaps, but have you tried any of the "gourmet" type meals to encourage fussy picky small dogs and breeds to eat like the cesar I think they are called or similar, something like that mixed with an extra bit of chicken or something might be a bit more tempting. I likely wouldnt suggest it normally, but under the circumstances, and it has got dogs eating before. Sometimes too warming a wet food, especially one like these, in the microwave for a few secons brings out the smell and entices them too.

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have you thought of possibly gettin him a new playmate? It worked for me and my dog!

We definitely do want another dog, but didn't want to rush into anything, I would love a rescue but Alfie was only friendly with Angus, was considering talking to rescue orgs about walking Alf with an ideal match and contributing to their upkeep while we slowly get them acquainted.

Our vet suggested we get a puppy and allow Alf to call the shots as he may have difficulty asserting himself with an adult dog, I want to do what it best for him but feel out of my depth.

I am also grieving terribly and ache for something to love that doesn't reject my affections, I hope Alfie will grow into that dog but after 7 years don't know that he wants to.