Tess Daly and Minnie
On Sunday Tess Daly spoke to newspapers about the death of her dog Minnie. According to several press reports she accidentally ran over her Maltese Shih Tzu in her car when returning to her home in Fulmer, Buckinghamshire. Builders, who were working in the house, left open a door and Minnie escaped. When Tess drove home she didn’t see Minnie and sadly ran her over.
The presenter told The Sun on Sunday that she was “devastated” over losing the animal.
“I’m devastated by this terrible accident. It’s a dog owner’s worst nightmare. “It has had a huge effect on the whole family and we are heartbroken at losing Minnie.“This has, and continues to be, a very emotional time for us all.”
Animal lover Tess
Tess and her husband Vernon Kay were about to go to the Maldives with their daughters Phoebe and Amber to celebrate Tess’ 50th birthday but have postponed their trip because they are grieving for their beloved dog.
According to a source Tess and the family are deeply saddened by the event.
“Minnie was like another child to Tess and Vernon and to lose a member of the family in such a tragic, hideous way is understandably devastating.”
The family have more pets, a four-year-old Chihuahua called Blue, and two one-year old Shetland ponies, called Honey and Willow.
Sudden death of a pet
Losing a pet can be devastating but when it is an accidental death and one like this there is both shock and guilt to deal with. No one is blaming Tess for the accident in any way, shape or form, and I cannot imagine what it must feel like to run over a beloved member of the family.
People who experience sudden loss are often shocked. They may not be able to talk or eat at first and they may have other physical symptoms such as shaking and not being able to sleep. It is absolutely essential to make sure you are looking after yourself or that someone is looking after you. Try to have hot drinks and soups if you can’t manage a full meal. If you can’t sleep for a full night then try and get plenty of little naps if possible.
It is difficult enough to cope with the loss of a pet if you know it is going to happen, but sudden death is very tough. It make take a while for your normal grief responses to kick in.
Guilt of accidental pet death
People will often experience guilt if a pet dies. This is normal. There will be feelings of regret and deep sadness. This can show itself as irritability or anger. As long you are able to accept help you will recover although there may always be times of immense sadness.
If there is a shocking death such as accidental death then these feelings can be heightened. It is important to seek help if you or someone close is suffering from a traumatic death. Your vet or your GP can help you to find bereavement counsellors.
Pet Bereavement Guide
Sign up for our 12 Step Pet Bereavement Guide. It will take you through all the stages of pet grief with lots of helpful advice for coping with the loss of a pet.