Amanda Owen, the beloved star of Channel 5's Our Yorkshire Farm, has shared an emotional and concerning health update about one of her family's cherished pets, months after a tragic loss.
A Worrying Change in Behaviour
The Yorkshire Shepherdess took to Instagram on Sunday, January 18, to reveal that her terrier, Sprout, had been acting strangely and had become physically unwell. Owen posted several photographs of the poorly pup receiving veterinary care, explaining the troubling period her canine companion had endured.
"Well, here's an update that I never thought I would be doing," Owen wrote. She described how Sprout, often an "overlooked" member of the pack, had become unsettled, lost her appetite for food and life, and even refused to come inside the family's Ravenseat Farm house.
The 51-year-old mother-of-nine noted that Sprout would wander off to neighbours' houses, appearing listless, dull-eyed, and completely unlike her usual self. This behaviour persisted for weeks, leading the family to fear she might "fade away."
The Simple, Sad Truth Behind the Illness
After extensive worry, the family realised the root cause of Sprout's decline was not a complex medical condition, but something far more relatable: profound grief.
Owen disclosed that Sprout was mourning the death of her best friend and constant companion, another dog named Chalky. "She was grieving and searching for Chalky, her best friend, partner in crime, and full of foe at times," Owen explained.
The shepherdess mentioned that while there were medications available to potentially lift Sprout's mood, the family decided pharmaceuticals were not the appropriate cure for a broken heart.
A Previous Loss and Support from Followers
Chalky, a much-loved family pet, died back in October. Owen had previously marked the loss by sharing a photograph of a handcrafted wooden memorial box, believed to contain Chalky's ashes, decorated with vibrant painted artwork and his name.
Upon learning the reason for Sprout's poor health, Amanda Owen's followers flooded the Instagram comments with sympathy and support. Many shared their own experiences and suggested a possible solution.
One supporter wrote: "100% true. Grief can totally change a dog. Enjoy finding a new chum for her!" Another agreed, commenting: "Yes, she wants a friend." A third added: "Poor thing. Grief affects everyone. She needs another playmate. Good luck with her. Hope she gets over this in time. Sending much love."
The poignant update highlights the deep bonds animals form and the very real impact of loss, even within the bustling, resilient setting of Our Yorkshire Farm.
