Rourke’s beloved Chihuahua dies in his arms

Oscar nominee says, ‘Loki is deeply missed but with me in spirit’

Andrew Medichini / AP

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updated 2:58 p.m. ET Feb. 18, 2009

NEW YORK - Mickey Rourke is headed to the Academy Awards both as a nominee and a grieving pet owner after the death of his 17-year-old Chihuahua, Loki.

A representative for Rourke, Judy Woloshen, said the actor's beloved dog died Monday night.

Says Rourke: "Loki is deeply missed but with me in spirit. I feel very blessed that she fell asleep peacefully in my arms."

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Rourke, who's having a career comeback with his acclaimed performance in "The Wrestler," was especially close to Loki and is a longtime owner of chihuahuas.

Rourke thanked all his dogs — living and dead — after winning the Golden Globe for best actor last month, saying "sometimes when a man's alone, all you got is your dog."