How dogs and cats respond to the loss of companion animals and what owners can do to support bereaved pets.
Animal grief responses after the loss of a companion are genuine welfare events that require owner attention and thoughtful management. A dog that becomes less active, eats less, searches familiar locations, and seeks more human contact following the death of a companion is communicating a real change in wellbeing that deserves response. Dismissing these responses as mere habit change rather than genuine grief may lead owners to underestimate the welfare need. Providing additional social contact, maintaining familiar routines, and allowing the grieving animal time to adjust before introducing new companions are welfare-positive responses to a predictable and real consequence of close animal companionship.