Kirk Herbstreit shared the heartbreaking news on Thursday that he had to say goodbye to his beloved Golden Retriever, Ben, following a battle with cancer. The popular ESPN analyst took to social media to inform his followers about the sad turn of events and to pay tribute to his loyal companion.
“This is really hard to write, but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben 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,” Herbstreit shared on his social media pages, conveying the pain of losing his furry friend.
Earlier this week, Herbstreit had opened up about Ben’s condition, revealing that the Golden Retriever had been undergoing chemotherapy treatments. He explained that despite their efforts, the situation was worsening, and they were facing a critical 24 to 48-hour period to determine if Ben could pull through. Sadly, the cancer had progressed too far, leaving Herbstreit and his family with the difficult decision to put Ben down.
On Thursday, Herbstreit honored Ben’s memory, describing him as truly one of a kind. “I’ve had dogs my whole life, but Ben was 1 [of] 1. He was smart, loving, gentle, patient, inquisitive, and welcoming to all,” the former Ohio State quarterback wrote. “Always a big smile and a soft tail wag. He and I could communicate… he and I understood each other and had each other’s backs.”
Ben had become something of a fan favorite in recent years, accompanying Herbstreit as he traveled for his work. Whether it was flying via private jet to “Thursday Night Football” games that Herbstreit called for Amazon or joining him on the road for “College GameDay” and Saturday night college football matchups on ESPN, Ben was often by his side. The Golden Retriever’s presence was a comforting constant in Herbstreit’s hectic schedule, and fans came to love seeing Ben along for the ride.
“He was with me more than anyone—at home and traveling with me for work. Such an easy-going companion,” Herbstreit wrote in his emotional post. It was clear that Ben was not just a pet; he was a true member of the family and a steadfast partner in Herbstreit’s life.
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The college football analyst expressed his deep gratitude for the time he had with Ben, reflecting on the bond they shared and the joy Ben brought to his life. “Hard day—but he will live within all of us forever. God, please bless his majestic soul, and thank you for putting him in my life for the last 10 years—a true blessing.” Herbstreit’s words resonated with pet owners everywhere, who understand the profound connection that forms between a person and their dog.
Herbstreit’s tribute to Ben was met with an outpouring of support from fans, colleagues, and fellow pet lovers, who offered their condolences and shared their own stories of beloved pets.
Many people remarked on how they felt they knew Ben through Herbstreit’s social media posts and the glimpses they got of him during game day travels. The Golden Retriever had touched the hearts of many, becoming a symbol of loyalty and companionship, not just to Herbstreit, but to countless others who followed their journey.
For Herbstreit, Ben was more than just a dog; he was a constant companion through the ups and downs of life. Whether it was during long days on the road covering college football or simply relaxing at home, Ben was always by his side, offering love and comfort.
The loss is deeply felt, but Herbstreit’s tribute makes it clear that Ben’s memory will forever be cherished.
The heartfelt farewell to Ben serves as a reminder of the deep bond that can form between humans and their pets. The love, loyalty, and companionship that Ben provided were irreplaceable, and Herbstreit’s tribute captured the essence of that relationship beautifully.
As Herbstreit continues his work in college football, the memory of Ben will undoubtedly remain a guiding presence, reminding him—and all of us—of the joy and unconditional love that a dog can bring into our lives.
