One aging pup named Walnut got the sweetest goodbye thanks to his loving human.
Last week, Mark Woods, who resides in the U.K., posted a photo of his 18-year-old whippet on Facebook with the caption, "'Walk with Walnut' Sadly I am having to have Walnut euthanized on Saturday 12th November and so we will be having a last walk together on his beloved Porth Beach at 9.30am."
He continued, "I would love it if dog lovers/owners and friends would join us for a celebration of Walnut on his favourite Porth Beach. He has had an incredible life and having reached the grand age of 18 is ready for his final sleep. Hope to see you on Saturday."
The elderly dog had to be put down due to deteriorating health.
But the reaction Woods got perhaps was much greater than he expected.
The post currently sits at about 19,000 reactions, and received more than 2,000 shares and 8,000 heartwarming comments like "Rip walnut you were lucky to have each other x," and "Love you Walnut, you will forever be in our hearts."
"I’ve had tens of thousands of messages from all over the world," Woods told Reuters, as reported by FOX 59. "I wish I could answer them all, but thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of those messages."
On the day of Walnut's final walk, hundreds of fellow dog lovers showed up to support the dog owner for the bittersweet occasion.
Others from around the world also walked with their own pooches at 9:30 a.m. in solidarity, People reported.
"Walnut passed away this morning at 11.56am," he wrote. "The family and our three whippets, Monty, Nelson and Charlie were also in the room. He went very quickly and in my arms. I am writing this post because I owe it to everyone who has supported myself, my family and most importantly Walnut."
The mourning dog lover also included a beautiful poem in his post he said was sent by a well wisher to commemorate his beloved pet.
Today you did the bravest thing,
Today you set me free
Thank you for showing me
The ultimate dignity
I’m sorry that my leaving
Has broken your kind heart
But we knew this day would come,
The day we had to part
Don’t think I did not hear
Every last word you said
Don’t think I did not feel
Your trembling hand touch my head
Today you did the bravest thing
Today you set me free
Thank you for a wonderful life
Thank you for loving me
Excuse us, someone seems to be cutting onions in here.
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