Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has announced the death of his pet dog, Roscoe, who had been on life support for four days, Afrosport reports.
The bulldog was taken to the hospital on Friday after suffering another bout of pneumonia, which forced Hamilton to cancel the Pirelli tyre test in Mugello on the same day.
Roscoe was placed in a coma after his heart stopped beating, and Hamilton called on his fans to offer their prayers for his dog in the hope that he would wake up.
The Scuderia Ferrari driver however took to Instagram on Monday to announce that his dog did not come out of his coma and passed away on Sunday at the age of 12 by his side.
“After four days on life support, fighting with every bit of strength he had, I had to make the hardest decision of my life and say goodbye to Roscoe,” Hamilton said in the post.
“He never stopped fighting, right until the very end. I feel so grateful and honoured to have shared my life with such a beautiful soul, an angel and true friend. Bringing Roscoe into my life was the best decision I ever made, and I will forever cherish the memories we created together.
“Although I lost Coco, I have never been faced with putting a dog to sleep before, though I know my mum and many close friends have. It is one of the most painful experiences, and I feel a deep connection to everyone who has gone through the loss of a beloved pet.
“Although it was so hard, having him was one of the most beautiful parts of life, to love so deeply and to be loved in return. Thank you all for the love and support you’ve shown Roscoe over the years. It has been so special to witness and feel.”
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Hamilton had owned Roscoe since 2013 and is the second bulldog to die in his arms, having lost Coco in 2020 at the age of six.
Hamilton will be hoping to uplift his spirit as the F1 paddock heads to Marina Bay for the Singapore Grand Prix this weekend.
