Jennifer Garner is mourning the heartbreaking loss of her beloved dog, Birdie, just one day before Thanksgiving. In an emotional Instagram post, the actress shared the news with her followers, describing Birdie as “the world’s best dog.”

“It is hard to know how to write this— it seems nuts, given the world, to mourn a pet, but since we have shared Birdie with all of you, it only seems fair to let you know of her passing,” Garner wrote. She explained that Birdie had suddenly fallen ill on Thursday, and a visit to the vet revealed her pet was at the end of her life.

Garner expressed gratitude for the timing, noting that Birdie seemed to wait for her child to come home from college. This allowed the family to spend their final moments together, petting Birdie’s soft ears and thanking her for the love she brought into their lives.

“She lived a happy dog life and is now in the role she was born to play: angel girl. It’s a gift to love and be loved by such a creature as Birdie the Doggie. 🐾🪽,” Garner shared, accompanied by photos and videos of her time with Birdie.

One clip showed the two lounging on a sofa as Garner read William Steig’s “Pete’s a Pizza,” both donning reading glasses. Another captured her tenderly singing to Birdie while cradling her, playfully using Birdie’s paws to accompany the tune.

Chef Ina Garten also wrote her sympathies, “Oh Jennifer, I’m heartbroken for you!!! She was the best buddy and always up for an adventure with all of you. Sending my love to you and the kids. I’m so glad they’re home with you now. Birdie will be eating turkey in heaven.”

Jennifer Garner’s tribute shows the special bond between humans and their pets. For her family, Birdie brought joy, comfort, and unconditional love until her final moments. Her memory will always live on as their “angel girl.”