EastEnders star Shona McGarty was devastated as she was forced to say goodbye to her dog after making the “hardest decision.”
The actress, best known for playing Whitney Dean on the BBC soap, revealed that her pet pooch has battled heart failure for years. Despite attempting a number of medical treatments, Shona confirmed they were no longer successful and insisted her beloved pet has “had enough”.
In an emotional tribute, the soap star shared a selection of videos and snaps of Coco Chanel, who she’s owned for 10 years. She wrote: “Today has been one of the hardest decisions I’ll ever make. My beautiful fur baby Coco Chanel, will be put to sleep at 3.30pm.
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“Coco has fought through heart failure for years.” The 32-year-old continued: “I’ve done everything I could, every treatment, every medication, but they just aren’t working anymore, and my brave little bubba has had enough.
(Image: shonabmx/Instagram)
“And even though you’re so sick, you still kiss my nose. I’ve been away doing pantomime for 6 weeks missing her like crazy. During the last week, she has really deteriorated.
“Myself and your little sister Cece, will miss your happy little face, and gorgeous minstrel eyes, my precious little “Coco bean” my silly “Coco Loco”.” She signed off the post thanking Coco for “the best 10 years” of her life, adding: “You know all my fears, anxiety’s, and secrets. You saw me through some of the worst times and struggles in my life. We’ll never forget you. I love you…”
(Image: Daily Mirror)
Friends and fans of the actress rushed to share their condolences, including a number of her EastEnders co-stars. Emma Barton, who plays Honey Mitchell, wrote: “Oh Shona.. I know how heartbreaking this is… But the kindest too.. sending love my darling.” Danniella Westbrook penned: “Oh sending u so much love shon xx.”
Denise Fox star Diane Parish commented: “Heart goes out to you darling. Sending love.” Gillian Wright, best known for her role as Jean slater, shared: “Dear you… it’s awful & im sorry. Sending love & hugs. Be careful just now & go easy on your way! Xxxx.”
(Image: shonabmx/Instagram)
Last year, it was confirmed Shona had quit the role of Whitney after more than 15 years. Speaking to Inside Soap magazine about her exit, she said: “It wasn’t an easy decision because I’ve made so many friends. I’ve seen people come and go, and meanwhile, Whitney has been one of the longest-standing characters.
“I’ve had so much fun and done so many storylines, some of which have been sensitive, and I’ve been honoured to be trusted with such heavy stuff, year after year. Shona added: “So, I’m going to be sad to say goodbye to my friends and family, but it was right decision for me as I want to do other things.” Her final scenes will air in early 2024.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
