Fur-Ever Sussex Festive: Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's Christmas Card Highlights Rescue Dog Mia Along With Rare Glimpse of Archie and Lilibet

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's 2024 Christmas card featured new glimpses of Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, but also a new image of their adorable rescue dog Mia and other furry Sussex friends!

Little is known about Mia, but animal rights attorney Shannon Keith, who runs the Beagle Freedom Project, shared some insight into the adoption process for Team Sussex in 2022.

Keith explained how she received a call from an unlisted number and had no idea who it was on the other end. "She calls on my cell with no Caller ID and says, 'Hey Shannon, this is Meghan,'" she recalled. "We talked for 30 minutes, and I thought, 'Is this Megan Fox?'"

The animal advocate only realized that the caller was Markle after the couple made an after-hours visit to see the dogs at a house in San Fernando Valley. Two security guards accompanied the Sussexes, and the event was a no-picture affair.

"The Duke and Duchess of Sussex are the most loving, sensitive and caring adopters I have ever met!" Keith later told an outlet. "We were so honored that they have been supporting Beagle Freedom Project and chose to adopt a dog who has been abused."

The duo are embracing the holiday spirit in their own unique way, sharing not just one but two Christmas cards this year — each serving its own purpose.

The public card, sent digitally via email, offers a charming peek into the Sussexes’ lives, featuring a montage of six photos capturing moments from their eventful year.

A private card, however, was also reportedly sent to close friends and family, further cementing their reputation for blending public visibility with private gestures.

The public card’s centerpiece is a heartwarming family snapshot. In the image, the couple is outdoors with their children, Prince Archie, 5, and Princess Lilibet, 3. Lilibet, sporting her signature auburn locks, runs eagerly toward her father, while Archie, clad in a cozy green sweater, dashes to Meghan.

The private card, however, is said to be far more intimate and personal. Unlike the curated digital version sent to the public, this exclusive card was mailed to a select group of family members and close friends, reportedly featuring handwritten notes from Harry and Meghan.

Royal insiders noted, "The private card is a reflection of their deep appreciation for those who’ve stood by them during a transformative year."

This dual approach to their holiday greetings is not without precedent. The Sussexes are known for carefully managing their public image while maintaining strong ties to their inner circle.

Last year, their card was notably less personal, showcasing a formal photo of the couple at the Invictus Games, with no appearances by their children. The inclusion of Archie and Lilibet in this year’s public card has thrilled fans, especially as it highlights Lilibet’s growth and her striking resemblance to Harry.

GBN reported on the Sussex cards.