The Norwegian royal household is grieving a third loss after the death of Princess Astrid's beloved chihuahua, Wilma. The dog passed away shortly after her owner, following the recent deaths of King Harald and Princess Astrid.
King Harald died on August 28, aged 89, while his older sister, Princess Astrid, died on September 11, aged 94. Wilma, who was 12 years old and had been sick for some time, died days after Princess Astrid's passing.
Wilma's final days
In a comment to NRK, Norway's state broadcaster, communications advisor Simen Sund said: "Recently, Wilma lived with one of Princess Astrid's children. Days after Princess Astrid's passing, Wilma also fell asleep quietly, lying where she felt most comfortable - on a good lap."
According to People magazine, a tribute about Wilma read: "Princess Astrid was rarely seen without her dog, Wilma. Dogs accompanied the Princess throughout her life — the first one she received from her parents on her second birthday."
A lifelong companion
The tribute added: "Princess Astrid adopted Wilma from a rehoming centre. [Her] previous dog, Tarzan, was also a rehoming dog."
The Norwegian royal household announced Princess Astrid's passing on September 11. A post online read: "His Majesty the King has received with great sorrow the news that Princess Astrid has passed away."
Royal tributes
King Haakon, Astrid's nephew, said: "Throughout a long life, Princess Astrid represented the Royal House in a warm and dutiful manner. Aunt Astrid was an important support to King Harald and the rest of our family. We learned a great deal from her, and she was not afraid to speak her mind."
Princess Astrid had four children: Cathrine Ferner Johansen, Benedikte Ferner, Alexander Ferner, Elisabeth Ferner Beckmann and Carl-Christian Ferner.
