On the 6th of August 2025, we received news that left our Petworld N1 City team in silence and tears. Diego — a beautiful, nine-year-old German Shepherd who had become part of our Petworld family — had crossed the rainbow bridge. His passing shook our team deeply, not only because he was one of our most regular visitors, but because he was truly loved by every one of us.
This isn’t just a tribute to a pet — it’s a celebration of a life that touched ours, of the love between a dog and his family, and of the bond Diego built with our community.
More Than a Pet
Diego Tyler Naidoo wasn’t just a dog. He was a brother, a son, a wise companion, and a character with stories all his own. Raised by his doting parents and adored by his two human sisters, Diego grew up in a home where he was more than just included — he was central.
His sister Alyssa remembers him fondly as the best study buddy, always present for school presentations, often seated like an attentive audience. He had a flair for drama and an unmissable personality.
He adored cheese, barked dutifully at horse-drawn carts, and made it very clear that anything in his yard — namely, birds and cats — were strictly unwelcome and toys — were strictly his. He was, his family jokes, “an old man inside a dog’s body,” who demanded the TV be turned off when he went to bed.
Diego was also known in his home as “the biggest gossiper.” He never wanted to miss out on a conversation. If a door was closed, he’d open it and sit himself right in the middle of the room, making sure he was part of the moment. Whether his family was sharing stories, laughing together, or preparing for the day ahead, Diego was there — a constant, attentive presence, quietly reminding everyone that he belonged in every chapter of their lives.
A Familiar Face at Petworld N1
Every month, like clockwork, Diego came in for his full groom — a visit our Groomworld team always looked forward to.
“Diego was a delight to have as one of our most loyal, fluffy clients,” said Anika, our Assistant Store Manager.
“He never gave us any hassles. What is truly heartwarming is seeing those who go above and beyond for their pets — and the bond Diego shared with his family was one of those once-in-a-lifetime kinds. You could feel the love when they walked in together. The news of his passing really touched us. He will be missed.”
Anika was the first to receive the heartbreaking news when the Naidoo family came into the store — not to shop, but to share their grief. It brought the team to a standstill.
“When is Diego Visiting Again?”
Diego wasn’t just known to the groomers. He was known to everyone.
“When his mom came in to buy treats, we always asked about Diego,” said Tracy, one of our cashiers who had a message for Diego's human sister, Alyssa.
“Alyssa, my condolences for your beautiful furry baby ❤️
We at Petworld N1 City miss Diego dearly. Diego had the best mom ever! 💐
We were always excited to see baby — even when mom was just shopping for his favourites 🦴”
For our team, Diego was part of the rhythm of the store — a name and face we all recognised, a dog we all adored. His visits made our days brighter, and his absence is truly felt.
His Legacy at Home
Diego’s family described him as fiercely intelligent — when he wanted to be. If he wasn’t in the mood to follow commands, he simply wouldn’t. His independence was as endearing as it was hilarious.
And then, of course, there were his sighs — endless, dramatic, and always laced with what his family fondly called “judgmentalness.” Whether someone was watching TV too late, speaking too loudly, or simply doing something that didn’t meet Diego’s approval, he had a sigh ready. It became part of the household soundtrack, a reminder that he had his own opinions about how life should run.
Despite his strong opinions, he was unfailingly loyal. He had an incredible emotional presence, always knowing when to be near, always watching and listening. His family called it an honour to love him and care for him.
A Small Gesture That Meant Everything
Even in their grief, the Naidoo family thought of others. They asked if Diego’s remaining loyalty points could be donated to the rescue organisation we support — a gesture that left many of us speechless.
That one act reminded us of what Petworld truly stands for: a community built on compassion, on mutual care, on the belief that every pet matters.
Izabella’s Tribute: For Diego
As a tribute from one of our team members, Izabella, we include this image — shared in quiet remembrance, filled with love.
Farewell, Diego — But Not Goodbye
Diego was born on 25 May 2016, and passed away on 6 August 2025. But his story doesn’t end there — not for those who loved him, nor for those who had the honour of knowing him through shared moments in-store.
To the Naidoo family — thank you. Thank you for raising a dog who was not just loved by you, but by all of us. Thank you for sharing his life with our team, and for letting us be part of your journey.
To Diego — your pawprints are on our floors, our hearts, and our memories. We’ll remember the sighs, the glares, the joy, the cheese-obsession, the loyalty — all of it.
You were one of a kind. And you’ll always be part of the Petworld family.
With love from the team at Petworld N1 City & Groomworld.
Because your pet really does mean the world to us. 🐾