Losing a dog can feel like losing a family member, and Kelly Ripa understands that pain all too well. Just two weeks after saying goodbye to her beloved Shih Tzu Chewie, the television host took to Instagram to share a touching video filled with cherished memories of her furry companion.
Kelly Ripa recalls fond memories with dog in touching tribute video
For Kelly Ripa and her family, Chewie was more than just a pet; she was a steadfast companion who had been a part of their lives for nearly two decades. Ripa, alongside her husband Mark Consuelos, reflected on how Chewie had been present through the various stages of their children’s upbringing, becoming a comforting presence as their kids left home. The couple, who are parents to Michael, 27, Lola, 23, and Joaquin, 21, found solace in the memories they had built with Chewie over the years.
Ripa’s Instagram tribute was not an easy decision for her. She admitted that posting the video made the loss feel all too real, a reality she was not yet ready to fully embrace. Yet, the act of sharing brought a sense of gratitude for the “almost 18 years” spent with Chewie, despite the pain of her absence.
In her post, Ripa expressed her thankfulness for the time they had with Chewie, who had shown unwavering loyalty and love. “She waited by the front door to welcome her siblings back home when they returned for visits,” Ripa wrote in the video’s caption.
Speaking on “Live with Kelly and Mark” on February 5, Mark Consuelos opened up about the heartbreaking decision he and Kelly Ripa made to put Chewie down due to her declining health. “It’s probably one of the toughest things we’ve had to do as a married couple,” he said.
Despite their grief, Ripa and her family have received an outpouring of support and condolences from friends and fans. The messages and kind words have offered a measure of comfort during this difficult time. As Ripa concluded in her tribute, “Our hearts may be broken, but are filled with the memories of joy Chewie gave us.”
