Credit: Bravo
Shannon Beador announced the death of her beloved Golden Retriever, Archie, on Instagram on Thursday.
Just under two weeks after Shannon, 62, confirmed that Archie had been diagnosed with brain cancer, she returned to social media, where she offered a devastating update on her longtime pet, prompting a slew of support from Tamra Judge, 58, and her other Real Housewives of Orange County co-stars.
“Heaven has a new special angel. Archie passed away yesterday and the girls and I are heartbroken. For the last 10 years, Archie wasn’t just my dog – he was my constant comfort, protector, best friend and truly the real ‘man’ in my life,” Shannon began on May 14, along with a photo of Archie on the beach with three dove emojis floating above his head. “I have been through so many highs and lows, and through every good time and every heartache, Archie was always by my side and loved me the same way every single day. Never judging me and always giving pure, loyal, and unconditional love.”
“I am grateful so many fans had the chance to watch Archie grow up. Everyone that got to know him could see his gentle heart and sweet soul. He was loved so much and felt all of it, even winning his Best Appearance award at Bravocon,” she continued. “Stella was able to fly home from Paris and Archie spent his last day doing his favorite things- standing in the ocean, sitting in the park, and eating, a lot of eating. More than just his usual carrots.”
Shannon then signaled her new dog, Troy, whom she welcomed into her home last year.
“One of the most selfless and thoughtful things Archie did was to bring Troy into our lives so we aren’t alone. There is such a void in our household right now. Troy continues to look for his big brother which is heartbreaking. I keep thinking he is just taking a nap but Archie is now a very special angel in heaven and is swimming, running, and playing catch with no more pain,” Shannon shared. “The girls and I are so blessed to have spent 10 years with the most incredible companion anyone could ask for.”
“I am going to be posting a lot about our handsome boy. There are so many amazing memories. And thank you is not even an accurate phrase to express our gratitude for so many of you that have reached out with your love and support. Please give your animals a hug and kiss for Archie today,” she added.
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Shannon also shared a photo of her daughter, Sophie Beador, 24, with Archie on her Instagram Story.
In the comments section of her main post, Shannon was flooded with kind messages, even from on-again, off-again friend Tamra.
“Sweet Archie is now running free in Heaven with all the tennis balls his heart desires … Thinking of you and the girls,” Tamra wrote.
“Thank you!” Shannon replied.
“Sweet Archie … now looking after you all … Sending all my love,” shared Heather Dubrow, 57.
“Yes he is!” Shannon agreed. “Thank you amiga!”
Jennifer Pedranti, 48, said, “Love you so much Shannon. I know how much you loved that boy.. and how much he loved you! Sending you big hugs. Archie was truly the best.”
In response, Shannon wrote, “Love you [Jennifer Pedanti]! And so grateful that you were indirectly responsible for bringing Troy into our lives! We are all so heartbroken!”
Then, after Gina Kirschenheiter, 42, said the loss was “Heartbreaking,” adding that “he will be so missed,” Shannon replied, “Thank you [Gina Kirschenheiter]. So happy that our team meatball were able to spend some time together in the park.”
Also in the comments section was Bronwyn Newport, 40, of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City, who said, “I am so sorry! But what a beautiful life he lived with your family! Thinking of you.”
“You are very sweet!” Shannon reacted. “So happy our babies were able to [film] the most amazing commercial together!!!”
Back on May 5, Shannon confirmed Archie’s cancer diagnosis.
“After experiencing multiple seizures, Archie has been diagnosed with brain cancer,” she revealed. “Our heart aches for our sweet Archie. He means the world to the girls and I. We are going to do everything we can to help him fight this. Archie has seen a neurologist and oncologist and it has been recommended that he start radiation soon. If anyone has experience with this or advice to share, it would truly mean so much to the girls and I. Please don’t hesitate to DM and reach out. Thank you for loving Archie as much as we do.”
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The Real Housewives of Orange County season 20 premieres on Thursday, July 9, at 8/7c on Bravo.