Dogs, cats, horses, and other companion animals show behavioural and physiological responses to loss of companions that parallel grief in humans; recognising and supporting bereaved animals is a welfare responsibility.
Animal grief responses are genuine psychological states, not anthropomorphic projection. The neurobiological basis for attachment is conserved across mammalian species, and loss of a bonded companion disrupts the same emotional systems in companion animals as in humans. Recognising grief as a welfare state requiring support — through additional companionship, altered routine, and veterinary attention if depression persists — is a sign of welfare-conscious animal care.