The Queen has been left heartbroken after the death of Beth, one of her beloved dogs.
The terrier was adopted by Camilla from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, along with her other dog Bluebell.
Buckingham Palace posted on social media alongside a montage of images of the Queen's pet: "A sad farewell to Beth, the Queen's much-loved companion from @Battersea-Dogs and Cats Home who brought such joy, whether on walkies, helping on official duties or curled up by the fire."
It is understood Beth had an untreatable tumour and had to be put down at the weekend.
Beth had appeared in public alongside the Queen, most notably when she competed against the late Paul O’Grady’s dog Sausage in a loyalty duel as part of his show For The Love Of Dogs.
Camilla is patron of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home and O’Grady was a long-time ambassador for the animal welfare charity.
A sad farewell to Beth, The Queen’s much-loved companion from @Battersea_ Dogs and Cats Home who brought such joy, whether on walkies, helping on official duties, or curled up by the fire. 🐾 pic.twitter.com/AD5WZKODqB
— The Royal Family (@RoyalFamily) November 18, 2024
The Queen is a keen lover of dogs and gave a nod to her beloved pets during the King’s coronation and at the King’s Speech last November.
Two tiny dog motifs adorned the Queen’s dress, perhaps a first for a regal state opening outfit, with Camilla re-wearing her coronation couture ensemble, which features golden embroidered images of her pet terriers Beth and Bluebell.
Earlier this year willow sculptures of Beth alongside Bluebell made an appearance at the Chelsea Flower Show when the Highgrove Gardens shop features for the first time.
The display was created by weaver Emma Stothard in honour of the terriers.
Stothard’s willow work has a prominent place in the organic gardens of the King’s private home Highgrove, including a piece in memory of Charles’ much-missed, loyal dog Tigga, who died in 2002 after 18 years of companionship with his master.
