Dogs, cats, and other companion animals grieve the loss of bonded companions. Understanding animal grief helps owners support their pets through bereavement.
Animals that lose bonded companions experience genuine grief responses including behavioral depression, searching behavior, reduced food intake, and vocalization. These responses indicate that the social bond was real and its loss is felt. Supporting grieving animals through consistent routine, increased human contact, enrichment, and if appropriate the introduction of a new companion can significantly reduce the duration and intensity of bereavement responses.