'My heart stops': Lewis Hamilton opens up on 12-year-old dog Roscoe's pneumonia battle
Lewis Hamilton
is facing a difficult time off the track, as his beloved bulldog Roscoe is battling serious health issues. The 12-and-a-half-year-old pet, known to
Formula One
fans around the world, was recently diagnosed with pneumonia, prompting concern across the paddock and beyond.
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Roscoe, who has accompanied Hamilton to races for years, is currently receiving intensive veterinary care.
Roscoe diagnosed with pneumonia
Roscoe's illness first came to light in the lead-up to the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix. Hamilton's long-time trainer and Roscoe's carer,
Kirstin McMillan
, shared the worrying news on Instagram, stating:
'He is going to his vet today. This is a vet that practises veterinary medicine where she combines Eastern and Western, that's an integrative pet practice.'
She explained that Roscoe was undergoing a treatment plan that includes both conventional and holistic methods:
'She's a real vet, she went to Davis and everything, but she went for a few years of additional training in holistic methods, Chinese medicine, acupuncture and things like that.
What she is going to do with him today is a high-dose Vitamin C IV drop and this is supportive care. This is in addition to the strong antibiotics that he is correctly on for his pneumonia.
And she'll do acupuncture on him, so this supports him.'
McMillan's updates were meant to reassure fans that Roscoe is receiving the best care possible.
Hamilton opens up about Roscoe's health
Ahead of the
Emilia Romagna Grand Prix
at Imola, Hamilton himself addressed Roscoe's condition and the emotional toll it's taken. Speaking to media, he shared a heartfelt update:
"He's 12-and-a-half years old, so he's an old boy," said Hamilton.
"He had pneumonia, but he's fine now, but definitely this is a time where every time I get a text message from the lady who's looking after him, my heart stops for a second."
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Hamilton, who is set to join Ferrari in 2025 and is currently racing in his final season with Mercedes, has always been open about his close bond with Roscoe. The dog has been a regular fixture at Grand Prix weekends and even has his own Instagram account with over a million followers.
Fans rally behind Roscoe
Roscoe's popularity among fans has led to an outpouring of support on social media. As one of the most well-known dogs in the motorsport world, Roscoe has become more than just Hamilton's pet, he's a companion that symbolizes the driver's grounded personality and love for animals.
Hamilton, a vocal advocate for animal welfare and a vegan lifestyle, has often credited Roscoe with helping him stay balanced amid the pressures of F1. His concern and vulnerability over Roscoe's health have struck a chord with many in the racing community and beyond.
A challenging time for Hamilton
This emotional period comes during a transitional season for Hamilton, who is set to leave Mercedes after more than a decade with the team. While he focuses on the remainder of the season and prepares for his future at Ferrari, Roscoe's illness is clearly weighing heavily on his mind.
Despite the challenges, Hamilton continues to show resilience, on and off the track, while cherishing every moment with Roscoe.
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