Dog grieving for rabbit?

[KaterH]

I’m not sure if anyone else has experienced this, but one of my dogs seems to be greiving for our recently passed senior rabbit (Clover). She is eating and playing a bit, but seems to be very confused at times about where Clover is (sniffing around bunny’s play area and randomly seeming out of sorts). She couldn’t be at the vet during the final appointment and I’ve tried letting her go into where Clover used to be, and I’m just giving her lots of attention, but has anyone experienced this? Any tips? Just sad to see her confused, as they grew up together (pic included).

[LittleLionMan]

I’m so sorry for your loss. Dogs can certainly grieve! I think most animals can (elephants will even die of a broken heart 😢)! I think part of it is confusion since their daily routine is disrupted and their friend is not there. My cat was essentially bonded to my bunny — they would groom each other, sleep together, play together, etc. my bunny passed unexpectedly and my cat was kind of depressed. She would just sit by the door waiting for my bunny to come out. Typically as long as they’re eating, drinking, and going to the bathroom I wouldn’t be too worried. They will get used to it and fall into a new routine. Keep giving lots of love to your furry friend. You both could use each other’s support right now ❤️

[KaterH]

Hello 🙂

Thx so much for sharing your story! I couldn’t find much online, so was really curious what others had experienced. My dog is eating and playing a bit more, so I think things are improving, but I’ll of course continue to give her lots of love. It’s actually nice in a way to see that Clover really did have such an impact, and my ‘lil doggie and I can just work through it together for sure ❤️ The grief comes and goes, but I’m just so happy I had 11 yrs to be a bunny mom.

[Author]

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