How Meghan, Duchess of Sussex was supported by an unexpected source throughout challenging times

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has faced many challenges in recent times following her and Prince Harry’s announcement that they were stepping down as senior members of the Royal Family.

• Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has reportedly found her pets a great source of "support' throughout the "tribulations" she's gone through.  
• Duchess Meghan owns two dogs that are very "important" to her. 
• In other Royal News, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge reunites with Holocaust survivors in poignant video call. 

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has not only had to contend with forging a new life in California after she and Prince Harry stepped away from royal engagements, but also with new motherhood as they raise their son Archie. 

Throughout the past year, the ongoing effects of the pandemic have proved challenging for people across the globe. Last year, Duchess Meghan also bravely shared news of her devastating miscarriage in the summer of 2020, in a moving piece for The New York Times. Now a source has claimed that the Duchess of Sussex's pets are a huge source of "support" for her, particularly given everything that has been going on. 

Where has Meghan, Duchess of Sussex turned for support?

Throughout the difficult times, it seems that Meghan, Duchess of Sussex has found a source of support in the animal kingdom. It’s understood that despite her move to California, the Duchess checks in often with her royal patronages, one of these being animal welfare charity, Mayhew, which works to improve the lives of dogs, cats and the people in communities, both in the UK and internationally.

More from woman&home: 

• Best jewellery making kits
• Best eReaders
• Best sewing machine

Speaking to Hello! magazine, Mayhew's CEO Caroline Yates reportedly explained: "Whenever we talk to the Duchess about the charity, she always references how important her dogs are and what a support they are, particularly during everything that's happened this year, with COVID, and with the personal trials and tribulations she went through this year."

Caroline went on to add: "It was really nice to share our experiences with her about how important animals are when things are tough and what a comfort they can be.”

"That's what Mayhew is all about, that's what we want to try and encourage, we want to try to promote the human-animal bond and what a great source of comfort and stimulation, and joy pet ownership can be."

How many pets does Duchess Meghan have?

Prince Harry and Duchess Meghan have two pet dogs, a rescue beagle called Guy and Pula, an adopted black labrador, who live with them and their son Archie at their California home. 

Last month, Mayhew had the honor of sharing the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s Christmas card picture on social media.

The adorable illustration featured the couple, their son Archie and their cute dogs.