Published November 7, 2024 at 1:49pm EDT|Updated November 7, 2024 at 1:49pm EDT
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Kirk Herbstreit’s beloved dog, Ben, has lost his battle with cancer.
Herbstreit recently revealed that the dog that college football fans have come to know and love for his shadow at games was suffering from cancer.
He updated fans on Thursday with an announcement no one wanted to hear. Ben is no longer with him or the fans who enjoy him on TV.
Ben, ESPN Gameday host Kirk Herbstreit has lost his battle with cancer. (Photo by Jesse Bales/Ikon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Kirk Herbstreit announces the death of his beloved dog Ben.
“It’s really hard to write this but so many of you loved and cared for Ben so much that I wanted to let you know. We found out today that the cancer had spread throughout Ben’s organs and there was nothing left we could do – we had to let him go,” he wrote. The famous ESPN anchor, in part, when announcing the absolutely devastating news.
“I’ve owned dogs all my life but Ben was one and only one. He was smart, loving, kind, patient, curious and welcoming to everyone. Always a big smile and a soft tail wag. He and I could communicate,” Herbstreit continued. “We understood each other and had each other’s backs.” He was with me more than anyone else in the house, and he traveled with me to work.”
He described Ben as a “majestic soul” and thanked God for putting the dog in his life. You can read his full announcement below, but beware it’s incredibly emotional.
Losing a dog is one of the most difficult things a person can go through. It’s earth shattering. Losing a great dog shakes a person to his core.
Ben was a regular at sporting events with Herbstreit. He has turned into his own icon in the world of college football. The dog was a star who was always by Kirk’s side, and now he’s gone and the suffering is over.
Kirk Herbstreit issued an emotional statement announcing the death of his dog, Ben. (Photo by Andy Altenberger/Ikon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Many of you reading this know exactly the kind of heartbreak Herbstreit is going through right now. My favorite dog died a decade ago, and I have shed more tears over the death of that dog than I ever have over the death of a human being.
The relationship between man and dog is simply beyond words.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Herbstreit and his entire family during this incredibly difficult and emotional time. Do you have a favorite dog that you would like to remember? Let me know at David.Hookstead@outkick.com.
