As King Charles III tries to win the fight of his life against cancer, his queen consort Camilla remains at his side, nurturing him privately and accompanying him publicly on his royal duties — such as a recent trip to Australia and Samoa.
With neither the King nor the Queen expected to trim their workload — even in light of Charles’ cancer and Camilla’s recent chest infection — the monarchy doesn’t have much time to grieve the loss of a loved one. But a recent death in the British Royal Family is certain to stir up emotions for the King and Queen.
Charles and Camilla mourn the death of Beth
It was announced Monday that Beth, Camilla’s beloved Jack Russell Terrier, died due to an uncurable tumor. Beth was 13, and she had been adopted by Camilla from the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. “We’re sad to hear that Beth, HM The Queen’s rescue dog, has passed away,” Battersea said via statement. “Her Majesty, our Patron, rehomed Beth from Battersea in 2011 and we have many fond memories of Beth visiting our centres over the years.
“Our thoughts are with Their Majesties at this time. We’d like to thank their Majesties for giving Beth such a wonderful life and for supporting rescue.”
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
Beth and Camilla’s other rescue, Bluebell, had their likenesses woven in to Camilla’s coronation gown when it was unveiled last year. The dogs were very special to the 77-year-old queen — and well-wishers on social media poured in to offer their condolences to Camilla, many of them sharing that they too had lost a beloved pet.
House Windsor — the current ruling family in the United Kingdom — has long shared its affinity for pets in general (and dogs in particular) with the outside world. Elizabeth II was well-known for her love of the Corgi breed, and the late monarch owned more than 30 of that particular dog. Only time will tell if Charles and Camilla opt for a new rescue to take Beth’s place — which would surely be a joyous occasion.
Queen Camilla is mourning the death of her rescue dog, Beth, who died over the weekend from an incurable tumor.https://t.co/FryktC6TWf
— VANITY FAIR (@VanityFair) November 18, 2024
