It's a difficult time for Chad Michael Murray and his family: the 33-year-old's dog of 15 years passed away on Monday. Chad shared the sad news on Instagram and posted the sweet snap above. His heartwarming message is as follows:
My best bud & 1st born son Joe, Thank you for everything you've ever done for me. You've been my kindred spirit, my unconditional friend. Thank you for carrying the weight that I could not. You taught me more about selflessness and compassion than I thought a dog could know. Thank you for always keeping the status Quo. Even the dogs at the dog park thank you for keeping the peace. Almost 15 years of adventures Joe and I'm so grateful for every minute. Rest easy now bud. Check in on us once and while would ya... You're missed and always will be. Thx for waiting to meet my son. This family won't be the same without you but so much stronger because of you. Rest in peace Joey. We Love You, Chad, Sarah & Baby Murray.
In an interview with Seventeen [1] in 2007, Chad revealed that Joe, whom he referred to as his son, "goes everywhere with me." Most recently, the former One Tree Hill star shared a touching photo of Joe and his other dog, Clark, writing, "Good ole Joe is still hanging in there... Crazy how tough he is. #MansBestFriend." Keep scrolling to see Chad and Joe's cutest Instagram moments, and then check out more stars who say their dogs are their best friends [2].
"This throwback is my favorite pic of Joe & I. 10 years ago. Crazy how time flys. #MansBestFriend #LoveUrPups @aspca #OTHSeason1or2."
"This is the best dog in whole world. Joes been with me for 14 1/2 years. Every step of the way he's done more for me than I could ever do for him. My family & I are so grateful to have his companionship in this life. He's fallen on hard times right now. Please send out some prayers. #MansBestFriend #Prayers4Joe."
"Mans best friend."
"Good ole Joe is still hanging in there... Crazy how tough he is. #MansBestFriend."
"Thursday night movie night for Joe & I. 'Imaginarium of Dr. Parnassus' #aspiretoinspire."
"Ruff & tumble... Not really. Just Joe. Keep movin friends. #FatherSonBonding."
"Trailer nappin! #LeftBehindMovie."
"Missing my son... #Joe."