The Other Pets: Should They See the Body?

You have a second dog or cat. They are confused. Should you let them sniff the deceased pet?

**The short answer: Yes.**

Why?

Animals understand death. They do not understand "disappearing."

If their companion walks out the door and never comes back, they will search. They will pace. They will wait by the door. This is "searching anxiety."

If they sniff the body, they switch from "searching" to "grieving." Grieving is sad, but searching is stressful.

How to Do It

Next Steps Checklist