Kirk Herbstreit’s beloved golden retriever Ben has passed away at the age of 10, the ESPN analyst shared in a heartbreaking post.

Taking to social media mere hours before the ‘Thursday Night Football’ matchup between the Baltimore Ravens and Cincinnati Bengals, Herbstreit revealed that Ben lost his battle with cancer. “This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared about Ben that I wanted to let you know,” he began.

“We found out today the cancer had spread throughout Ben’s organs and there was nothing left we could do – we had to let him go.

“I’ve had dogs my whole life, but Ben was 1 on 1. He was smart, loving, gentle, patient, inquisitive, and welcoming to all. 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.

“He was with me more than anyone at home and traveling with me for work,” Herbstreit continued. “Such an easygoing companion. 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. Love you, Ben.”

In recent years, Ben had become a fixture on ESPN’s ‘College GameDay,’ routinely accompanying Herbstreit on the field of whichever stadium they were at that week. This season, droves of NFL and college football teams began making credential passes for the commentator’s furry companion, with official titles including Wide Retriever, Chief Happiness Officer of Football, and Treat Analyst.

Follow us on Xfor the best and latest in sports news

Ben routinely accompanied Herbstreit on the set of ESPN's 'College Gameday'

Ben routinely accompanied Herbstreit on the set of ESPN’s ‘College Gameday’ ( 

Image:

Getty Images)

Back in March, Ben was diagnosed with leukemia and lymphoma – later undergoing surgery in July to detach cancerous masses from his spleen and intestine. But earlier this week, Herbstreit divulged that his condition worsened significantly after receiving a second chemo injection.

“I’ve had so many people asking me about Ben that I wanted to let you know – Ben had a 2nd chemo injection on October 23rd and from that day has been getting worse and worse. He has lost use of his back legs – almost like they’re paralyzed,” Herbstreit wrote.

“He can barely walk. He hasn’t eaten in 3 days. I’m currently in Pennsylvania with a holistic [doctor] who is administering a three-day Vitamin C IV, hoping it will flush the toxics from his body and give him a chance. The next 24-48 hours will tell us if he has a chance or not.

“I’m so thankful for ALL the love so many have shown him over the last couple years. One of the hardest things I’ve gone through in my life. Ben is my best friend and companion. I love him with all of my heart.”

In light of Ben’s passing, droves of supporters offered their condolences to Herbstreit. “Dogs are family. Dogs are best friends. America will remember Ben as a legend. He made so many people happy. He is looking down smiling at you,” one X user wrote.

Another added: “So incredibly sorry for your loss, Herbie. Thanks for allowing so many of us to enjoy Ben’s journeys with you. There’s nothing like a dog’s companionship. Will be thinking of you and your family during a tough time.”