Shocking Family Rebellion: Why This French Actor's Dying Wish for His Dog Was Defiantly Ignored
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The passing of a screen legend often leaves a trail of poignant stories and heartfelt tributes, but the death of French actor Alain Delon at the age of 88 has sparked a unique and controversial conversation about the bond between humans and their pets, and the ethical considerations surrounding end-of-life decisions.
Alain Delon, a cinematic icon whose career spanned over half a century, was not only known for his contributions to the film industry but also for his profound love for dogs. Throughout his lifetime, Delon sheltered 55 dogs, a testament to his compassion for canine companions. His final wish, however, has ignited a debate that has resonated far beyond his immediate family.
Delon had expressed a desire to be buried alongside his ten-year-old Belgian Malinois, Loubo. He envisioned a departure from this world that would not separate him from his beloved pet, even in death. In a heartfelt confession to Paris Match magazine in 2018, Delon referred to Loubo as 'my end-of-life dog...I love him like a child.' He elaborated on his wish, saying, 'If I die before him, I'll ask the vet to take us away together. He'll put him to sleep in my arms. I'd rather do that than know that he'll let himself die on my grave with so much suffering.'
However, this wish was met with staunch opposition from animal rights groups and the public, leading to a family decision that would defy the late actor's request. The Fondation Brigitte Bardot, a French animal protection charity, along with the SPA (Société Protectrice des Animaux), France's equivalent of the RSPCA, strongly advocated against the euthanization of Loubo. The SPA even offered to rehome the dog, emphasizing that 'the life of an animal should not be conditioned by that of a human.'
In the wake of the backlash, Delon's daughter announced that the family would not euthanize Loubo, ensuring that the dog would continue to live with them. The charity relayed this decision to the public, stating, 'Many of you have sent us messages regarding the future of Loubo, Alain Delon's dog. He has his home and his family...Loubo will, of course, not be euthanised!'
While French law does not prohibit the euthanization of pets at the owner's request, it is ultimately up to veterinarians to decide whether to honour such wishes. In this case, the ethical considerations and public outcry have led to a decision that respects the life of Loubo while also honouring the memory of Delon in a different way.
Delon's love for dogs was so profound that he even established a chapel in a cemetery on the grounds of his home in Brulerie to hold the remains of at least 35 of his dogs. This sanctuary serves as a symbol of his enduring affection for his furry friends and his recognition of the significant role they played in his life.
The story of Alain Delon and Loubo raises important questions about the rights of animals, the responsibilities of pet ownership, and the complexities of human-animal relationships. It also serves as a reminder of the deep emotional connections we forge with our pets and the lengths to which we go to honour those bonds.
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Alain Delon, let us also consider the ethical dimensions of our wishes and the impact they have on the living beings we cherish. Loubo's continued life is a tribute to the love he shared with Delon and a testament to the actor's legacy as an animal lover.
We invite our readers to share their thoughts on this delicate matter. Have you ever considered the future of your pets after your passing? How do you feel about the decision made by Alain Delon's family? Join the conversation and let us know in the comments below.
Alain Delon, a cinematic icon whose career spanned over half a century, was not only known for his contributions to the film industry but also for his profound love for dogs. Throughout his lifetime, Delon sheltered 55 dogs, a testament to his compassion for canine companions. His final wish, however, has ignited a debate that has resonated far beyond his immediate family.
Delon had expressed a desire to be buried alongside his ten-year-old Belgian Malinois, Loubo. He envisioned a departure from this world that would not separate him from his beloved pet, even in death. In a heartfelt confession to Paris Match magazine in 2018, Delon referred to Loubo as 'my end-of-life dog...I love him like a child.' He elaborated on his wish, saying, 'If I die before him, I'll ask the vet to take us away together. He'll put him to sleep in my arms. I'd rather do that than know that he'll let himself die on my grave with so much suffering.'
Delon’s request to euthanise his dog Loubo and bury it with him sparks animal rights backlash. Credit: @anouchkadelon / Instagram
However, this wish was met with staunch opposition from animal rights groups and the public, leading to a family decision that would defy the late actor's request. The Fondation Brigitte Bardot, a French animal protection charity, along with the SPA (Société Protectrice des Animaux), France's equivalent of the RSPCA, strongly advocated against the euthanization of Loubo. The SPA even offered to rehome the dog, emphasizing that 'the life of an animal should not be conditioned by that of a human.'
In the wake of the backlash, Delon's daughter announced that the family would not euthanize Loubo, ensuring that the dog would continue to live with them. The charity relayed this decision to the public, stating, 'Many of you have sent us messages regarding the future of Loubo, Alain Delon's dog. He has his home and his family...Loubo will, of course, not be euthanised!'
While French law does not prohibit the euthanization of pets at the owner's request, it is ultimately up to veterinarians to decide whether to honour such wishes. In this case, the ethical considerations and public outcry have led to a decision that respects the life of Loubo while also honouring the memory of Delon in a different way.
Delon's love for dogs was so profound that he even established a chapel in a cemetery on the grounds of his home in Brulerie to hold the remains of at least 35 of his dogs. This sanctuary serves as a symbol of his enduring affection for his furry friends and his recognition of the significant role they played in his life.
The story of Alain Delon and Loubo raises important questions about the rights of animals, the responsibilities of pet ownership, and the complexities of human-animal relationships. It also serves as a reminder of the deep emotional connections we forge with our pets and the lengths to which we go to honour those bonds.
As we reflect on the life and legacy of Alain Delon, let us also consider the ethical dimensions of our wishes and the impact they have on the living beings we cherish. Loubo's continued life is a tribute to the love he shared with Delon and a testament to the actor's legacy as an animal lover.
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Dogs have a right to be treated humanely.
