In celebration of National Pet Day on April 11, Kate Middleton and Prince William delighted royal watchers by sharing a touching tribute to their family dog, Orla. The rare photo showed their beloved black Cocker Spaniel in a serene, wooded setting, with her fur glistening and her eyes looking on the horizon.
The royal couple’s Instagram post honored “the animals who bring so much joy, companionship, and love to our lives,” accompanied by a sweet paw print emoji. Fans quickly flooded the comments with admiration for the photo, praising the elegance and charm of Orla, who has become a quiet but beloved figure in the royal household.
Kate Middleton and Prince William celebrate their furry friend
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The post sparked fresh interest in the story behind Orla, the second black Cocker Spaniel adopted by Kate and Prince William. The pup joined their family after the passing of their first dog Lupo in November 2020. Both dogs were gifted by Kate’s brother, James, who is a passionate dog lover and pet food entrepreneur.
Orla’s name means “golden princess” in Celtic, and she has fittingly appeared in official photos with Princess Charlotte and was even seen trotting beside the family at a polo match back in 2022. The fact that the couple decided to honor her publicly shows the special place their dog holds in their private and public life.
A royal tradition of pet-loving
Pets have long been the royal family’s favorite, and Kate and William are clearly continuing that tradition. Their devotion to Orla not only celebrates National Pet Day but also says a great deal about the affection they feel towards their four-legged friend. Orla is not just a pet, she is part of the family history.
Other members of the royal household joined in the day’s celebrations, such as Sarah Ferguson penning her own tribute to her seven dogs, including Queen Elizabeth’s favorite corgis. From public displays to candid moments, the royal household’s love for their pets gives a heartwarming glimpse into their more private lives filled with fur, play, and devotion.
