The tragic necropsy results for Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa’s dog, Zinfandel, commonly known as “Zinna,”shed light on the heartbreaking circumstances surrounding the canine’s death. According to the report, starvation and dehydration were identified as the primary causes. Meanwhile, their two surviving dogs are currently under the care of Santa Fe Tails, as reported by ABC News.
Zinna, a 12-year-old Australian kelpie mix weighing 41 pounds, was discovered deceased inside a crate situated just 10-15 feet from Arakawa’s body. The necropsy analysis indicated that there were no signs of infection, trauma, or poisoning present in the dog’s remains.
Dr. Robert Gruda, owner of Gruda Veterinary Hospital, clarified to USA Today that Zinna had been confined to the crate following surgery in January 2025, under the guidance of hospital staff. He praised Arakawa, stating:
“She was an excellent dog owner, excellent caretaker to those dogs. She really doted on them.”
Exploring the Surgical History of Zinna
As indicated in a report by TODAY on March 15, Zinna had undergone several surgical procedures, including the removal of her spleen, gastropexy, and a minor intestines surgery. It was noted that her small intestine displayed multiple incisions; however, the exact reasons for these surgeries remain unclear due to decomposition.
As explained by PetMD, the removal of a dog’s spleen is commonly performed when a splenic tumor is diagnosed, making it a frequent surgical intervention. Gastropexy, on the other hand, is a surgical procedure aimed at preventing gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV), a potentially life-threatening condition that requires prompt attention.
What Does the Future Hold for the Surviving Dogs?
Following the unfortunate events, the couple’s surviving dogs, named Nikita and Bear, have been taken to Santa Fe Tails, a facility where Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa frequently boarded their pets. Reports indicate that one of the dogs was observed roaming outdoors, while the other remained close to Arakawa’s lifeless body.
Joey Padilla, the owner of Santa Fe Tails, expressed reassurance to the media by stating that both dogs are safe and being well cared for. He commended Hackman and Arakawa for their dedicated approach to pet ownership:
“They are safe and adjusting. I will be holding on to them until I get word on what Betsy’s wishes for these dogs are. Gene and Betsy were amazing friends and dog lovers. Those dogs were Betsy’s babies.”
A Heartfelt Farewell
Gene Hackman and Betsy Arakawa are survived by Hackman’s three children, Christopher Allen Hackman, Elizabeth Jean Hackman, and Leslie Anne Hackman, along with his granddaughter, Annie Hackman. In a statement to People, his children expressed their profound sorrow at their father’s passing, saying:
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our father, Gene Hackman, and his wife, Betsy. He was loved and admired by millions around the world for his brilliant acting career, but to us, he was always just Dad and Grandpa. We will miss him sorely and are devastated by the loss.”
Betsy Arakawa tragically passed away on February 11 from hantavirus pulmonary syndrome, a virulent illness transmitted through contact with rodent excretions. Reports indicate that her body showed signs of severe decomposition. Gene Hackman succumbed to cardiovascular complications and Alzheimer’s disease just a week later. Their remains, along with Zinna’s, were discovered in their Santa Fe residence on February 26, marking a sorrowful end to a beloved couple’s journey.