In a poignant tribute to a beloved furry friend, a box of tennis balls was left on a beach so that other dog owners could spend some quality time together.
Anybody who has ever owned a dog will testify that they quickly become members of the family - excited by your every move and loyal until the very end. Therefore, when they pass, it can be a difficult time for any dog owner.
However, one person opted to honor their late furry friend by leaving a box full of tennis balls on a beach in memory of "the goodest of good boys".
The box was left on Exmouth Beach in the UK, along with a photograph of the late Rex and a note from his owner.
"Rex loved the beach, Rex loved the ball," the note read. "Please feel free to take a ball for your dog and I hope you all enjoy this place as much as we did."
"Rex - sleep well, my ginger prince. The goodest of good boys," the touching tribute concluded.
After a photo of the "lovely gesture" was shared by Devon County Council on Twitter, emotional social media users couldn't help but comment on Rex's final offering, as well as pay tribute to the good boy.
"That’s brought tears my eyes. RIP Rex that’s so kind of the owner hope all the dogs enjoy the tennis balls and remember Rex when using them," one Twitter user replied.
A second added: "A lovely gesture for a much loved four legged friend it seems. Lovely stuff."
"Awww this is beautiful and heartbreaking at the same time," tweeted a third. "RIP Rex. You were very loved."
Others weren't too ashamed to say that the heartfelt act brought tears to their eyes, with another Twitter user proclaiming: "I’m a paratrooper, but this had made me cry so much."
The UK's RSCPA states that "grieving a pet can be similar to mourning the loss of a family member", with some owners experiencing "feelings of deep loneliness and isolation".
Fortunately, for anybody struggling, The Blue Cross offers a pet bereavement service, which provides free and confidential support to anybody who has been impacted by the loss of a pet.
Thank you for the tennis balls, Rex! You were clearly a very special doggo.
