Key Highlights
- Kelly Ripa shared a shocking experience with her late dog Chewie’s groomer.
- The dog was “cornrowed” without permission during a routine grooming session.
- Ripa revealed the incident occurred in early 2025, shortly before Chewie’s death.
Unfortunate Grooming Mishap
Kelly Ripa, cohost of Live with Kelly and Mark, recently shared a surprising story about her beloved dog Chewie. In an interview on the show, Ripa spoke about a grooming incident that left her stunned. The star revealed that during one of their regular visits to the groomer in early 2025, Chewie’s hair was unexpectedly “cornrowed,” much to Ripa’s disbelief.
Reactions and Reflections
Ripa recounted the incident with a mix of amusement and shock. She explained that when she picked up her dog from the groomer, she found the entire back of Chewie’s body had been cornrowed without her knowledge or consent. Ripa said, “I was like, how did they do this? And why did they do this?” The TV host added that she was “mesmerized that she would sit still that long,” referring to Chewie’s notorious dislike for being handled by strangers.
Personal Tributes and Reflections
Ripa’s revelation came during a segment discussing recent headlines, including a case of mistaken identity involving a lion-like dog named Mouse. This incident reminded Ripa of the grooming mishap with her own dog. She admitted that she “can’t find the pictures,” but insisted they existed.
Mourning Chewie
The cohosting couple had to endure a “rough day” as they announced the passing of their 17-year-old Shih Tzu, Chewie, on air. Ripa broke down in tears, expressing deep gratitude for the dog’s role in their family’s life. Consuelos and Ripa stated, “We’re filled with gratitude for this dog.”
Industry Insights and Lessons Learned
This incident highlights the importance of clear communication between pet owners and groomers to ensure that grooming expectations are met. Dog grooming professionals can avoid such misunderstandings by clearly discussing and documenting any changes or requests made by clients.
For Kelly Ripa, this experience serves as a poignant reminder of her cherished time with Chewie and the care they took in ensuring their beloved pet looked its best. The incident remains a talking point on the show, adding an extra layer of emotion to the daily segment.
