Monty Don has announced the death of his beloved Yorkshire terrier, Patti, this week after a brief illness, describing the family as "heartbroken". Patti had appeared intermittently on Gardeners' World since 2020.
Monty, who also has a golden retriever named Ned, wrote: "I have sad news. Our lovely Patti died suddenly this morning after a very short illness. She was much loved, and lit up our lives. We are all heartbroken."
Admission about loss months before
Just three months ago, dog-lover Monty opened up about the death of his family pets and how eight of his beloved dogs are buried in the copse at his Longmeadow garden in Herefordshire.
Speaking to Jo Whiley on the RHS Roots podcast in May, to coincide with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, Monty mentioned that the changing of the seasons continues to "thrill" him and that he dislikes October and November.
Addressing the dogs buried on his property
Monty went on to address the dogs buried on his property and admitted he tries "not to be sentimental". He said: "That's quite important, really. I try not to be sentimental - and Sarah's not remotely sentimental - about animals or anything really, but I like having them here."
He then addressed Ned, who'd joined them: "Ned, you're being distracting, trying to be centre of attention. Okay, stop kicking Jo and just behave yourself'. They've been part of the garden and he...I mean, all of them have been in the garden and always with us.
"But he just shadows me wherever I go, but I've had other dogs that've done the same. I mean, I had one beautiful black dog. He was a very handsome half-Newfoundland, half Labrador. And every picture, he use to just lie about five yards away from me."
Patti's retreat from the spotlight
Patti had previously retreated from the public spotlight somewhat after an unfortunate incident during the Covid lockdown period. Speaking to a fan, Monty explained that she "hates the tripods".
"She hates the tripods because one fell on her during lockdown. That is why you always see me holding her. When the cameras are not here, she is out with me all the time."
Monty received messages of support from fans and friends after he shared the tragic news about Patti. Matt Baker, known for his roles on Countryfile and Our Dream Farm, said he was "thinking" about him.
He wrote: "Thinking of you, Monty - As I always say, the reason we love our dogs so much is because the only time they break our hearts is when they leave us."
One person wrote: "I'm so sorry for your loss of wonderful Patti, what a beautiful life she led with you." Another said: "Oh, Patti. So sudden and such a shock to read. Sending you all the comfort in the world. Time will heal, as will the garden once you've come to terms with the quietness."
Patti's passing comes only months after Monty lost one of his older dogs, Peggy, whom he described as "eccentric, quirky, infinitely gentle and loving". Catch Monty on Gardeners' World on BBC Two tonight (Friday, August 28), from 8pm to 9pm.
