Ruth Langsford broke down in tears on Loose Women on Monday (October 19) as she spoke about the death of her beloved dog, Maggie, which she shared with her ex-husband, Eamonn Holmes.
The presenter, 66, had announced the news on Instagram last week, telling followers that Maggie had passed away at the age of 16. She said it was Maggie's time, adding that her passing was "painless and peaceful".
Emotional tribute on Loose Women
Speaking about Maggie's death on the show, Ruth told the panel: "I literally got home, oh god… It was her time. She was 16. You know when people say to you who've had pets that have passed, 'You'll just know' and I just knew."
She added: "She got a bronchial infection, like very quickly. We were with her to the end. It's very sad but it was very peaceful."
Son Jack rushed home to be with Maggie
A tearful Ruth said that her son, Jack, who she shares with Eamonn, rushed home to be by Maggie's side. "Jack got home… I believe Maggie waited for him, I really do," she continued.
"And if someone had said that to me however many years ago, I'd have done an inward eyeroll. But she knew it was him and she licked his face. I'm so glad we were all there but it's heartbreaking. We're very thankful, we've had her for so long."
Heartbreaking social media announcement
Announcing the news on social media, Ruth shared a photo of Maggie cuddling a toy Champagne bottle. "It is with a heavy heart that I tell you our beautiful Maggie has gone to sleep forever," she wrote.
"She was 16 years old and sadly this was her time. Her passing was painless and peaceful and we were with her until the very end. We are so thankful to have had her in our lives for 15 years… she gave us so much joy and unconditional love. We will treasure our memories forever. Rest in peace our beautiful girl."
