The family of a dog dying from cancer gave her an emotional last day featuring all of her favourite things. Molly, a 12-year-old Staffordshire bull terrier cross, was given a send-off that included picking out a last treat, eating a McDonald's burger and saying goodbye to her friend.
Molly was diagnosed with a cancerous tumour two months ago, leaving Emmie Neilson, 23, with the heartbreaking decision to have her put to sleep. But they wanted to give her the best send-off first.
Emmie told the Mirror: "First we went to McDonald's for her first and last cheeseburger and McFlurry. Then we took her for a drive to Pets at Home to get some attention from strangers and choose her last treat. She loved it.
"We took her for a short walk in her favourite spot, she couldn't walk very far, but she loved it. Lastly we took her to her best friend dog to say goodbye and finally to her beloved sister."
Emmie, from Putney, south west London, said Molly was the "most loving, loyal baby" who wouldn't hurt a soul. She came to the family as a puppy and has enjoyed 12 years of love - and eating everything in sight.
Emmie described how they found out she had cancer: "A few lumps started appearing on her, but at first they weren't causing her any pain and it was just put down to her getting old. Then about two months ago, a large mass appeared overnight on her leg and she began limping. We also found a large one on her spine."
Molly was prescribed strong painkillers by the vet, but the lump on her leg "doubled in size" and she became very reserved.
"She just wasn't her usual self, so we had to make the best decision for her," Emmie said.
Thanks to her devoted family, Molly couldn't have enjoyed her final 24 hours more, and Emmie will remember that day forever.
"We are heartbroken without her and our home will never be the same," she added. "She has brought joy and happiness and endless love every minute of everyday. We will never replace her. Losing a pet is just as hard as losing a human. The pain is unbearable."
Emmie took to TikTok to share a touching video of their last moments together and it has been viewed 2.7 million times. The compilation shows Molly driving to McDonald's and tucking into a cheeseburger, choosing her favourite treat and rolling in her favourite field for the final time.
Grieving dog owners united in the comments section, sharing their condolences for Emmie.
"I balled my eyes out. So sorry for your loss. Rest peacefully and run freely sweet baby," one person said.
"When I tell you that this hit home for me. I cried so much uncontrollably, I am heartbroken for you. They are not just pets…but family," another agreed.
