James Middleton has shared how “the whole family came to say goodbye” as he buried his therapy dog Ella, who helped him through his battle with depression.
The 35-year-old brother of the Princess of Wales has also revealed how his beloved pet, who died earlier this month aged 15, prevented him from “contemplating suicide” in an article he wrote for The Times.
He wrote: ‘I have thought about suicide, but never really contemplated it. My thoughts stopped dead because Ella got in the way.
The entrepreneur, who founded the raw dog food brand Ella & Co, which he named after his late spaniel, explained that “in difficult times” he would go an entire day without speaking to anyone but Ella.
James Middleton announced the death of Ella, who was 15, on Instagram earlier this month.
She also recalled the time she had to bury her therapy dog, saying it took her four hours “because I knew once I was done digging, that would be the last goodbye.”
‘The whole family came to say goodbye. I can’t speak for them, but I think she influenced their lives too,” she added.
James continued: ‘My sisters [Kate and Pippa Middleton] He came to some of my therapy sessions. They have always been there during the difficult moments and they were also by my side in the most difficult moments. For that, I will be forever grateful.
He previously credited the black spaniel with helping him overcome his mental health issues and introducing him to his wife, Alizée Thevenet.
James announced Ella’s death in a heartbreaking Instagram post, writing: “It is with great sadness that I announce my dear Ella has passed away.”
‘For 15 years, Ella has been by my side, from my darkest days to my happiest days. I will miss her terribly.
‘She had a very brief illness, ran away into my arms at home and is now buried in the garden next to Tilly. I took this photo just a few hours before she died.
“I’m just trying to stick together to write this and even though I knew this day would come, it doesn’t make it any easier. Good evening my dear Ella, Alizee and the dogs will take good care of me.
He accompanied the message with two photos of Ella, including one he took just hours before she passed away in his arms.
