We ask the Government to recognise companion animal bereavement by introducing guidance encouraging employers to allow compassionate leave when an employee experiences the death of a pet. This would help ensure employees are treated with understanding during a difficult time.

For many people, companion animals are beloved members of the family. Their loss can cause genuine grief and emotional distress. However, there is currently little recognition of pet bereavement in workplaces and people often feel their grief is dismissed with comments such as “it’s just a cat” or “it’s just a dog”. Recognising companion animal bereavement would help promote compassion and understanding for people experiencing this loss.