Eilyn and Ray Jimenez, stars of the HGTV series “Divided by Design,” have been living any pet owner’s worst nightmare after losing their beloved dog while on vacation.
Aria, the couple’s 12-year-old Shih Tzu, was in the care of a sitter booked through the pet sitter website Rover.
The Jimenezes were informed that Aria “died of a heart attack” adding, “the sitter came to our door crying, saying Aria ‘passed peacefully in her sleep.'”
Rover Says They Are Helping With the Investigation
Rover — the site that helps match pet owners with potential sitters in their area — released a statement as the Jimenezes continue their search for answers.
“Upon learning of this incident, Rover’s 24/7 Trust & Safety team conducted a thorough investigation into Aria’s passing,” the company told TMZ. “The sitter involved has been deactivated from our platform without the option to appeal. …. We stand ready to assist law enforcement with their investigation should they become involved.”
Eilyn and Ray Jimenez Seek Answers on Aria’s Death
“If you think your pet is safe with your pet sitter, think again,” Eilyn shared via Instagram on October 20, claiming “every part” of the pet sitter’s story was “fabricated.”
She went on to say that the sitter, Barbara Paz, and her partner, Daniel Souza, requested a rushed cremation the same day that Aria reportedly passed.
“When the cremation center staff asked what happened, the partner admitted Aria had been killed by a larger dog. They described visible trauma: her scalp detached, one eye bulging — injuries impossible to confuse with a peaceful passing,” Eilyn continued. “The sitter was never even in Miami. She was in Las Vegas, competing in a jiu-jitsu tournament representing [fight sports miami], while our dog was left with her partner and around bigger dogs we never approved.”
The grieving parents acknowledge that “mistakes can happen,” but after having given the sitter and her partner “every opportunity to come forward with the truth,” they reportedly continue to push their “fabricated” story.
“Aria deserved better. All we want is the truth, and accountability for the life that was lost,” Eilyn concluded.
For his part, Ray assured followers that “Aria is for sure in doggie heaven right now, happy panting and loving on all you guys.”
“Thank you guys for the love and support,” he added in his Instagarm comment, before calling on Rover to “figure this out.” “As for the two that lied and tried to hide this… although I still (want to) believe in humanity. you are what’s wrong with this world.”
OMG! What is going on? Poor little puppy. I have a little dog and I have to protect him from large dogs all of the time.! I have to carry pepper spray due to a large dog chasing us down the street and I had to lift him over a ladies fence to keep that dog from hurting him.
The point is the lengths people went to lie! I don’t trust anyone to take care of my dog. I’ve tried to do it, but they just don’t get it. There’s one old man who sits at my home and he’s barely passed the tests. Bless you and your baby in heaven. Again I’m so sad for you guys.
I am so sorry 😞 for your loss, this never should have happened! I Love All Animals! I feed my Squirrels, Blue Jay’s, Sparrows, all kinds of Amimals! I wish you all the Love in the World! Your little puppy has Wings 🪽 now in Heaven! Bless you Both!❤️🙏