Kaley Cuoco discusses her ‘heart-wrenching’ choice to rehome dog Shirley
Kaley Cuoco is dealing with the loss of her dog Shirley and has opened up about a hard decision she made.
In a video shared on her Instagram on Monday, the “Big Bang Theory” star revealed that her dog passed away at 14 years old. She also spoke about the “heart-wrenching decision” to rehome her a few years prior.
“There’s something heavy on my mind that I feel ready to talk about,” Cuoco explained, detailing how Shirley, who had been with her since she was just 6 weeks old, had started having intense fights with her fiancé’s dog.
Cuoco became engaged to actor Tom Pelphrey this year. They began dating in 2022 and share a daughter named Matilda.
The “Based on a True Story” actress mentioned that Pelphrey is “also a huge dog lover,” but when he moved in with his German Shepherd named Blue, things didn’t go well between the dogs.
“Shirley was intent on attacking him,” Cuoco joked. She noted that Shirley preferred people over other dogs and would often get into altercations with them.
“We obviously have many dogs in our home,” said Cuoco, who is known for adopting and fostering dogs and runs her own pet care business, Oh Norman! “I became really concerned that Shirley could seriously injure another dog and had to make a very tough decision.”
In the end, Cuoco chose to rehome Shirley, placing her with her pet handler Tony and his wife Angie. “I wanted to ensure she went to a home that would understand her,” Cuoco explained.
With Shirley’s passing, Cuoco felt it was important to speak up for her.
“She had a wonderful life,” said the actress. “I am heartbroken that she has crossed the rainbow bridge.”
Despite fears of being judged, Cuoco emphasized her commitment to being open about her challenges with pet care, even when it’s difficult.
“I will always advocate for every four-legged friend,” she stated, “If you’ve had to find a new home for your dog, I fully understand how challenging those choices can be.”
Cuoco has long been involved in animal welfare, often adopting rescue pets. The “Flight Attendant” actress owns a ranch and rescue farm where a variety of animals receive care and a new opportunity at life.