Pet ownership creates profound human-animal bonds, making pet loss significant. However, compared to human loss, Human- Computer Interaction (HCI) has given pet loss less attention. Addressing this, we conducted an exploratory mixed-methods study. The study began with a large-scale survey (N=611) revealing critical challenges: a strong desire to preserve memories but limited support for continuing bonds. Built upon these findings, our participatory design sessions(N=10) co-designed Bondi, a tangible prototype sup- porting continuing bonds through multimodal and customizable interactions (e.g. touch, sound, and light), evoking pets’ unique sounds, tail movements, and lighting effects. We then conducted a three-week field-deployment study with four participants to evaluate how Bondi facilitated the maintenance of bonds with their deceased pets. Results showed that the customization and multi- modality evoked vivid recollections, lowering the social barrier for grief sharing. Bondi fostered comforting and non-intrusive connec- tions with pet memories. Furthermore, the study distilled design considerations for future pet bereavement support.

Authors: Ningchang Xiong, Yanheng Li, Man Chong Chin, and Kening Zhu