Sometimes, it’s the smallest gestures that win hearts—like cuddling a rescue puppy in the garden.
Queen Camilla reminded us of that this week when the Royal Family released an adorable photo of her cradling her beloved dog, Moley, at her countryside retreat.
Capturing a Quiet, Heartwarming Moment
In the lovely photo taken at Ray Mill House in Wiltshire, Camilla, 77, beams as she holds Moley—a Jack Russell-cross she adopted earlier this year.
The little pup, believed to be born on Boxing Day, is thought to have quite the mixed heritage, with her breed described as “a bit of everything.”
Her name? Moley—because, as the Queen joked, “she looks just like a mole!”
Dressed in a vibrant, tropical-print dress adorned with colorful birds and leaves, Camilla looked every inch the relaxed dog mum.
Her signature wavy blonde hair was loose, and her glam makeup completed the joyful look.
Moley, meanwhile, looked content in her black collar.
A Special Bond Born From Loss
Camilla’s connection with Moley is especially poignant. She previously adopted two rescue dogs—Beth and Bluebell—from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home in 2011 and 2012. Sadly, Beth passed away in November last year due to an untreatable tumour. Moley has since brought new warmth into her life.
The Queen first mentioned her new pup during a February visit to the Beaney House of Art & Knowledge in Canterbury.
While petting a guide dog there, she revealed to a partially-sighted visitor: “I’ve just got a new puppy—eight weeks old!” And when asked about the breed? With a laugh, she replied, “You may well ask. A bit of everything!”
Moley Missed Her Trip, But Sent Her Love
The sweet image of Camilla with Moley was shared by the Royal Family to coincide with Camilla’s visit to Battersea Dogs and Cats Home this Monday.
The palace captioned the image on social media:
“It was a fantastic afternoon at @Battersea – we are so grateful for all that you do! Whilst Moley was keeping cool at home, she wishes she could have been reunited with some of her old friends!”
Royal Visit to Battersea: A Day With the Dogs
Camilla was absolutely in her element during her Battersea visit.
As a longtime animal lover and patron of the charity since 2017, she didn’t just meet the dogs—she delighted in their company.
Donning a chic royal blue pleated maxi dress that echoed the elegance of the Princess of Wales’ Roksanda dress at Wimbledon the day before, Camilla arrived ready to mingle with some furry friends.
Adding a touch of charm to her outfit was a terrier badge pinned to her chest.
A Garden for Dogs and Peace of Mind
Her visit included a very special unveiling—the new Pat Myers Garden, a calming outdoor space designed to help dogs relax, especially those recovering from trauma or waiting for adoption.
Originally featured at this year’s Chelsea Flower Show, the garden was gifted to Battersea and includes shady spots, grass, and sensory features.
The Queen unveiled a blue plaque to commemorate the garden’s opening, while surrounded by the cheerful chaos of wagging tails and wet noses.
Canines, Celebs, and Royal Charm
Camilla wasn’t the only familiar face at the event.
She was joined by TV presenter Amanda Holden, who wore a classic polka-dot dress, and model David Gandy, looking sharp in a black suit.
The trio chatted while dogs playfully sniffed, jumped up, and even tried to lick the Queen’s handbag!
At one point, Camilla beamed while petting a golden Labrador, and her affection was returned in full.
From a white terrier reaching up to a curious black dog, the Queen was surrounded by unconditional love.
A Light-Hearted Wimbledon Moment
Just days before, Queen Camilla had been spotted at Wimbledon enjoying the quarter-finals alongside actor Hugh Grant and his wife Anna.
But the intense tennis action might’ve been a bit too relaxing—Hugh was hilariously caught on camera dozing off after chatting with the Queen.
Fans online were quick to share their amusement, posting memes and jokes like:
“It’s all got a bit too much for Hugh Grant.”
A Queen With Heart—and a Hound
Whether charming A-listers or bonding with abandoned pets, Queen Camilla continues to show a softer, more relatable side of royalty.
Moley may be small, but she clearly has a big place in Her Majesty’s heart—and in the hearts of everyone who’s ever fallen for a rescue dog.