Scott Van Pelt’s dog Otis has sadly passed away

American sports commentator Scott Van Pelt has paid tribute to his dog Otis who recently passed away at the age of eleven. 

Taking to Twitter in order to break the news to over 2 million followers on April 27, ESPN host Van Pelt wrote, “Crushed to share that we had to say goodbye to Otis The Dog. Truly the most special friendship and bond of my entire lifetime."

"He was an absolute King. Love on your good boys and good girls with all your might - every day that you can. There aren’t ever enough of them.”

• Death of Vanna White’s cat Stella leaves viewers on verge of tears
• Meet Dana Perino's new dog: Percy Vizsla

Still clearly feeling the weight of what had happened the next day, he later added another post, saying, “He was the King of our home. Honor him. One Big Thing. See you after the draft.” 

The news was immediately met with well-wishes and condolences from both the public and the wider sporting world, with colleague Seth Davis writing, “Anyone who has loved and lost a dog understands the deep pain. Happy trails Otis.”

A fan wrote, “11 years is a great run. May Otis run freely across the rainbow bridge.”

Van Pelt has regularly shared stories and anecdotes about Otis during his time on the air, a popular feature of his shows that didn’t escape his viewers, with one fondly recalling, “Enough stories of Otis The Dog from back on radio days that we all felt like we knew him, and his luxe Five Guys eating habits. A real one indeed.”

Outside of family and friends, it’s hard to think of a sadder experience than being with a beloved pet as they pass away. While it’s important to remember the good times, it doesn’t make the situation any easier, and we pass on our condolences to Van Pelt at this time.