Sophia Michaels
It is widely known that Kate Middleton lived with her parents during her first pregnancy. However, a previously untold aspect involves a frightening incident involving James Middleton’s dog during that period.
In his autobiography “Meet Ella,” James Middleton shares a harrowing experience involving his puppy Zulu. As he was traveling to London, James received an alarming call about an accident at his parents’ home. Rushing back, he encountered emergency services and found his mother, Carole, injured. “There was mum, one arm soaked in blood, vainly trying to calm a distressed and frantically wriggling dog whose head had become stuck between the gatepost and the gate,” he recalled. During the struggle to save Zulu, the pup bit Carole as she attempted to prevent him from injuring himself further.
With the help of his father, Michael, James used a crowbar to release Zulu, who was quickly taken to the veterinarian. Fortunately, the dog recovered, though it took time. James expressed deep remorse over the incident, especially considering its potential impact on his sister, who was pregnant at the time. This situation must have been distressing for Kate, particularly as she had received Zulu’s brother, Lupo, as a wedding gift from James.
Late-night connections between Kate and James during Zulu’s recovery
While James was understandably anxious about how Zulu’s accident affected Kate, it actually brought the two siblings closer in an unexpected way.
Kate and James have always shared a strong bond, along with a mutual interest in beekeeping. During Zulu’s recovery, late-night feedings of Prince George coincided with James checking up on the recovering dog. At one point, Zulu’s injuries caused incontinence, placing both James and Kate on diaper duty simultaneously. Interestingly, James noted that even his father, Michael, who was not a dog enthusiast, embraced the role of a caring “dog grandpa,” buying treats and a new bed for Zulu. James even caught Michael tucking the dog in at night and chuckled at his father introducing Zulu as his own pet.
More than ten years after that terrifying day, Zulu has thrived and even has puppies. In 2020, James celebrated Father’s Day by sharing a heartwarming post on Instagram, praising Zulu’s paternal skills. “Whether you are teaching Nala how to wag her tail so fast it spins her round or how to pose for photos…you are a fantastic daddy and we are all lucky to have you in our life!” he expressed. It’s wonderful to see that this story concluded on a joyful note!
