Robert Irwin, the conservationist and current Dancing with the Stars contestant, has revealed that his pug, Stella, has been diagnosed with cancer.
The 21-year-old shared the news on Instagram on October 12, describing Stella as a “tough cookie” and his “little bestie.” He said a mass was discovered in the dog, which was found to be cancerous. Irwin noted that the full extent of the illness is not yet known.
“I have faith she’ll be in the clear. She is such an important part of our little fam, so it’s been stressful to say the least being away from home and away from her while she goes through this,” he wrote.
Irwin is currently in Los Angeles for DWTS, while Stella remains in Australia. He confirmed that she is recovering post-surgery. Family members, including his mother Teri and sister Bindi, offered messages of support, praising Stella’s strength.
Irwin also reflected on the emotional week during rehearsals and said his upcoming dance is dedicated to his mother and strong mothers everywhere.
