The Duchess of Cambridge’s brother posted on Instagram following the death of nine-year-old black cocker spaniel Lupo, who was related to some of his own pooches, last weekend. Animal lover James, 33, said “nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a dog”.
The businessman, who has six dogs, shared a string of pictures of Lupo.
Alongside the photos, James said: “It is with great sadness that Lupo, the beloved dog of my sister Catherine and her family has passed away.
“Lupo was the son of Ella, brother to Zulu, Inka & Luna. He was 9 years old.
“Nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a dog.
James Middleton has shared an emotional tribute to Kate and Prince William’s dog (Image: GETTY/INSTAGRAM/KENSINGTON PALACE)
James said “nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a dog” (Image: GETTY)
“For those who have never had a dog, it might be hard to understand the loss.
“However for those who have loved a dog know the truth: a dog is not just a pet; it is a member of the family, a best friend, a loyal companion, a teacher and a therapist.
“Many people over the years have reached out to me about the pain of loosing a dog and for most, the loss of a dog is, in almost every way comparable to the loss of a Human loved one.
“The pain I felt from loosing my first dog Tilly back in 2017 still hurts and on hearing the news about Lupo brought a wave of emotions flooding back.
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William and Kate pictured with Lupo after Prince George’s birth (Image: PA)
William and Kate announced the devastating death of their pet in a post on their Kensington Palace Instagram on Sunday evening (Image: INSTAGRAM/KENSINGTON PALACE)
“There isn’t much of a rule book on how to grieve for a dog, but I’ve said a prayer, lit a candle and taken Ella (Mum) for a long walk to spend time remembering Lupo.
“Rest in peace Lupo. Tilly & Mini will be waiting for you. You will always be remembered and your legacy will live on forever. Good Boy.”
William and Kate announced the devastating death of their pet in a post on their Kensington Palace Instagram on Sunday evening.
They shared a sweet picture of Lupo and said: “Very sadly last weekend our dear dog, Lupo, passed away.
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Royal fans flooded social media with messages of condolences (Image: GETTY)
William pictured with Lupo in 2012 (Image: GETTY)
“He has been at the heart of our family for the past nine years and we will miss him so much. – W & C.”
Royal fans flooded social media with messages of condolences.
Royal expert Ingrid Seward described the death of a pet dog as “heartbreaking”.
She tweeted: “Very sad news that Lupo- The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s 9-year-old cocker spaniel passed away last weekend.
James has six of his own dogs (Image: INSTAGRAM/JMIDY)
“Dogs are part of the family and losing one is heartbreaking.”
The Queen’s former press secretary Dickie Arbiter wrote on Twitter: “How very sad for The Cambridge family losing #Lupo who has been with them for nine years.
“He gave them lots of unconditional love, and anyone who has owned a pet will know the effect the loss of a pet can have on the family.”
Following the birth of his and Kate’s first child Prince George in July 2013, William said Lupo had taken the change in his stride.
He said: “He’s coping all right, actually.
“As a lot of people know who have got dogs and bring a newborn back, they take a little bit of time to adapt, but, no he’s been all right so far.
“He’s been slobbering sort of around the house a bit, so he’s perfectly happy.”
