Reese Witherspoon shares heartbreaking announcement as she mourns tragic death

Reese Witherspoon shared a heartbreaking announcement as she mourned the tragic death of one of her pet dogs.

The 48-year-old took to social media to share the news that one of her beloved pooches, a gorgeous chocolate Labrador named Hank, had passed away. Oscar-winning actress Reese revealed the dog had been the “best family pet” for more than 14 years, and she was left devastated by Hank’s passing.

Taking to her Instagram Story, she posted a sweet shot of Hank sitting patiently on the front porch of her Nashville mansion, and wrote: “We will miss your sweet spirit, Hank. Thank you for being the best family pet and the pack leader.” her children, Ava, 24, and Deacon, 20, who she shares with ex-husband Ryan Philippe, also paid tribute to Hank on Instagram. Budding actress Ava shared a snap of her cuddling up to her pet pooch and wrote: “’14 ½ years of pure love & constant tail wagging. The job was ‘family pet’ & he excelled at it. Thanks Hanky for reminding us that every day is the best day ever.”

Ava’s fans sent their condolences in the comments, with one writing: “I’m so sorry for your loss. My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. May his memory always be a blessing.” Another added: “Oh my goodness I am so so so so sorry sending so much love. He was always so precious,” as one commented: “The love we have for our 4-legged babies runs deep. Peaceful vibes coming your way.” Meanwhile, musician Deacon simply shared a photo of him with Hank on a couch, and captioned it: “Happiest dog that ever lived.”

Reese is also mum to another dog, a French Bulldog named Minnie Pearl, who replaced her pooch Pepper. The actress also had an English Bulldog called Frank Sinatra, and another French Bulldog named Coco Chanel. While Hank rarely appeared on Reese’s main Instagram grid, her pet Minnie Pearl is a regular in her social media posts, and in one slideshow, the Morning Show star dressed up the dog in a series of outfits.

The news of Hank’s death comes just days after she was rumoured to be dating German private equity financier Olivier Haarmann, 56, following her divorce from ex-husband Jim Toth. The couple split last year after almost 12 years of marriage, and share a son, Tennessee, 11. Reese was seen enjoying a string of dates with Olivier in New York City last month, and was photographed arriving by helicopter and dining at exclusive restaurant L’Artusi in the West Village with the businessman.

However, a source told People that the rumoured new couple are just “friends”, and Reese is “taking things slow” when it comes to dating following the breakdown of her second marriage. “She enjoys it but doesn’t want it to be a big focus. She’s busy with work and her son. These are her biggest priorities,” the insider claimed.

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