Emma Claere Mertens of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, loved dogs very much. Emma rose to international fame for being the 8-year-old viral sensation who received dog pictures and letters from all over the world.
Little Emma was diagnosed with a rare inoperable brain tumor called DIPG (diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma).
On Sunday, November 17, 2019, her dad posted this message to Facebook, “Emma Claere Mertens passed away in her mom and my arms at 3:52 pm today. She fought so hard but it was time to go home and leave the pain behind. In her final hours, we told her how many people love her and that it was ok to go. We will miss her dearly.”
Source: Team Emma-Emmalovesdogs7/Facebook
Emma received thousands of dog photos, had her own Team Emma Facebook page, and the Emma Loves Dogs foundation to fund organizations that help animals.
In addition to the letters, photos, cards, and gifts she received, 40 K9 officers and their human handlers lined the street to Emma’s home earlier this year to support the sweet child.
Source: Team Emma – Fight against DIPG/GoFundMe
“Emma was completely surprised and just smiling the whole time as a parade of police cars and dogs lined the neighborhood,” her father, Geoff, said in response to the kind gesture.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Emma in this sorrowful time.
Source: Team Emma – Fight against DIPG/GoFundMe
“Through all of this battle, all Emma wanted to do was spread kindness and help animals,” the family wrote in a recent update.
You’ve definitely left a legacy of love and will always be remembered, Emma.
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10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet
Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.
While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.
These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.
1) Akita
When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.
Source: NicoMonaco/Flickr
2) Boxer
This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.
Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr
3) Skye Terrier
Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.
Source: WaketheSun/Flickr
4) Beagle
This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.
Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr
5) Shar-Pei
This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.
Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr
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