When a beloved pet dies, it is natural to want to grieve and say goodbye. Some people believe that allowing surviving pets to see the deceased pet can help them to process their grief and understand what has happened. Others believe that it is best to keep the surviving pets away from the deceased pet, as it may cause them distress or confusion.

Should Pets See Dead Pets?

Benefits of Allowing Pets to See Dead Pets

There are several potential benefits to allowing pets to see dead pets:

  • It can help them to understand what has happened. When a pet dies suddenly or without explanation, surviving pets may be confused and anxious. Seeing the deceased pet can help them to understand that their companion is gone.
  • It can help them to grieve. Allowing pets to see the deceased pet can give them a chance to say goodbye and to express their grief. This can help them to move through the grieving process and to eventually heal.
  • It can help to prevent them from developing separation anxiety. If the surviving pets are not allowed to see the deceased pet, they may develop separation anxiety, as they may believe that their companion is still alive but has simply gone missing.
  • Risks of Allowing Pets to See Dead Pets

    There are also some risks associated with allowing pets to see dead pets:

  • It can cause them distress or confusion. Some pets may be distressed or confused by seeing the deceased pet. They may try to wake the pet up or interact with it, which can be upsetting for both the pet and the owner.
  • It can lead to aggression. In some cases, pets may become aggressive towards the deceased pet or towards other pets in the household. This is most likely to happen if the deceased pet was sick or injured before it died.
  • It can cause them to develop health problems. If the deceased pet died from a contagious disease, the surviving pets may be at risk of catching the disease. This is especially true if the deceased pet was not properly vaccinated.
  • Conclusion

    The decision of whether or not to allow pets to see dead pets is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best decision will depend on the individual pet and the circumstances of the death. If you are considering allowing your pet to see the deceased pet, it is important to talk to your veterinarian first. They can help you to assess the risks and benefits and to make the best decision for your pet.