Dogs, cats, and other companion animals can experience grief-like responses when animal companions die. Understanding and supporting bereaved companion animals improves their welfare during loss.
Companion animal grief is a genuine welfare concern that deserves acknowledgment and appropriate response from owners and veterinarians. Bereaved animals benefit from increased human attention and companionship, maintenance of familiar routines that provide stability during a disorienting period, and in some cases, gentle introduction of new social companions when the time is appropriate. Forcing rapid replacement of a companion before a bereaved animal has adjusted can cause additional stress. Veterinary support for bereaved animals includes assessment for significant depressive responses that may benefit from short-term medication, and advice on supporting recovery. Owners dealing with their own grief should seek support to ensure they can adequately care for surviving animals during the bereavement period.