The late French actor Alain Delon’s wish that his pet dog be put down and buried with him has sparked controversy and outrage among animal rights campaigners. Delon, who passed away at the age of 88, had expressed his desire for his 10-year-old Belgian malinois named Loubo to be euthanized and laid to rest in his grave in the cemetery of his home in the village of Douchy in the Loiret.
However, after activists voiced their concerns and offered to find a new home for Loubo, Delon’s children decided to keep the dog. The Brigitte Bardot Foundation confirmed that Anouchka Delon, the actor’s daughter, had stated that Loubo would remain with the family and would not be put down. This decision came after the SPA and other animal organizations expressed their opposition to Delon’s request, emphasizing that the life of an animal should not be dependent on that of a human.
Delon had a special bond with Loubo, whom he adopted from a refuge in 2014. In a 2018 interview with Paris Match, he described the dog as his „end of life dog“ and expressed his love for him, stating, „I love him like a child.“ Delon had even made plans for Loubo to be euthanized in his arms if he were to pass away before the dog, rather than allowing him to suffer alone.
The controversy surrounding Delon’s wish for Loubo’s euthanasia drew criticism from animal welfare organizations, with the 30 Million Friends Foundation condemning the decision as a „convenience“ euthanasia of a healthy animal. They expressed hope that Loubo would be adopted and cared for by a responsible individual if the need arose.
Anouchka Delon, in a post on Instagram, expressed her gratitude to Loubo for his loyalty and companionship, referring to him as a faithful companion who stood by his master. Delon’s love for animals was evident throughout his life, as he had created a chapel in his cemetery to honor the remains of over 35 of his beloved dogs.
Reports indicate that Delon will be buried at his Douchy home in a private ceremony, in accordance with his wishes for a simple and modest farewell. Despite the initial controversy surrounding Loubo’s fate, the decision to spare the dog and allow him to remain with the family has brought relief to many who were concerned about the well-being of the loyal companion.
