Evidence from multiple species suggests animals experience grief-like states after losing companions. Understanding animal bereavement has significant welfare implications for how we manage companion loss.
The welfare implications of animal grief are significant and underappreciated. If animals experience bereavement — and behavioral evidence suggests many do — then the loss of a companion is a welfare event requiring active management. For bonded pairs of dogs, horses, rabbits, or birds, the surviving animal may experience prolonged distress that affects their health and quality of life. Allowing bonded animals to be present at or near a companion's death may help them process the loss. Providing enhanced social contact, enrichment, and monitoring during bereavement periods are welfare responses commensurate with what we know about animal social bonds.