Kate Middleton and Prince William Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
Prince William and Princess Kate Middleton really are just like Us: devoted pet owners.
While allowing faithful four-legged companions to sleep in the same bed is often a hot-button debate topic, William and Kate, both 42, just proved we’re not alone in letting it happen.
During a Thursday, October 17, appearance in Cornwall, William visited with a local and her pet. The attendee later offered insight into their conversation at the walkabout during an appearance on Hits Radio Cornwall.
“[William] said that his little dog sleeps on the bed with them at night, with him and Kate,” she told the outlet, per Hello! magazine.
The Prince and Princess of Wales, who share three kids, are proud puppy parents to cocker spaniel Orla. Kate’s brother, James Middleton, gifted them the pooch in 2021 one year after their beloved pet Lupo died.
“Very sadly last weekend our dear dog, Lupo, passed away,” William and Kate wrote via Instagram in November 2020. “He has been at the heart of our family for the past nine years and we will miss him so much.”
Lupo had also been a present from James, 37, who owns multiple pets of his own. Many of James’ dogs, including late pup Ella, have helped him manage mental health struggles.
Orla Max Mumby/Indigo/Getty Images
“Nothing can ever prepare you for the loss of a dog. For those who have never had a dog, it might be hard to understand the loss,” James noted in his own Instagram tribute after Lupo’s passing. “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.”
He added, “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.”
In November 2010, the day before her engagement to Prince William was announced, Princess Kate Middleton sat in a corner at The Old Boot pub near her childhood home in Bucklebury with her sister, Pippa, and her brother, James. According to James’ new memoir, Meet Ella: The Dog Who Saved My Life, the close-knit siblings […]
Since Lupo’s death, William and Kate have found solace in Orla. They have recently been navigating a trying time as the princess completed cancer treatment.
Kate was diagnosed with an undisclosed form of cancer earlier this year, soon undergoing a round of chemotherapy. She finished her treatment last month.
“The last nine months have been incredibly tough for us as a family. Life as you know it can change in an instant and we have had to find a way to navigate the stormy waters and road unknown,” Kate said in a September statement. “With humility, it also brings you face to face with your own vulnerabilities in a way you have never considered before, and with that, a new perspective on everything. This time has above all reminded William and me to reflect and be grateful for the simple yet important things in life, which so many of us often take for granted.”
