When a dog loses a human companion, they grieve and react to the changes in their life just like people do. Mourning a loved one can be an incredibly hard and heartbreaking time, and we often do things to feel closer to them after they pass.
One mourning pooch has proved its loyalty to its owner to the grave and beyond, after it kept vigil at their tomb for a month in China. The pup refused to leave his owner's body in the city of Zigong, Sichuan province, except to forage for food and water. The heartbreaking footage was shared online and has made animal lovers across the world shed tears.
Mr Ye, an animal carer from the Zigong Stray Dog Rescue Base, heard rumours of the devoted dog who refused to leave its dead owner's side, and went to pay him a visit.
It emerged that the owner's children had moved to a different city, so there was no one left to take care of the dog.
Now, the loyal pooch has begun a new life after Mr Ye took gained its trust and rescued it.
In one piece of footage, he can be seen approaching the heartbroken pup with a piece of sausage and petting it, before picking it up and putting it in a pet carrier.
A second clip shows Mr Ye giving the dog a special meal, made of boiled eggs and dried dog food, in an attempt to lift its spirits.
Much to Mr Ye's delight - the special snack seems to be doing the trick.
After the video was shared on Douyin - the Chinese version of TikTok - the internet became overcome with emotion and praised the pooch for his loyalty.
Another dog has stolen hearts online this week, after his touching morning routine with an elderly neighbour went viral.
In the original clip, Maisy the golden retriever can be seen wagging her tail and patiently waiting for 90-year-old Richard, a pensioner in a nearby retirement village, to walk past her house.
Richard uses a walker to slowly make his way down the road, while Maisy growls in excitement.
Once he reaches her, Maisy approaches him for her morning cuddle and the pair have some quality bonding time together.
The same moment happens every single day - and it's enough to make people cry.
Do you have a touching dog story to share? Email nia.dalton@reachplc.com.
