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Brace yourself for an emotional tumble: Reese Witherspoon is in the throes of mourning. There's been a significant loss in the household as they bid farewell to their long-time family member, Hank — their Labrador of over 14 years.

On Tuesday, August 6, the 48-year-old Legally Blonde icon took to her Instagram Stories to share a touching tribute to the late Hank. Her post pictured the pup, posing stoically in front of a welcome mat outside a black door. "We will miss your sweet spirit, Hank. Thank you for being the best family pet and the pack leader." she added alongside a pink heart and a dove emoji.

Reese Witherspoon attends as Amazon debuts Inaugural Upfront Presentation at Pier 36 on May 14, 2024 in New York City. Dog mom Reese Witherspoon poses with 'Legally Blonde' co-star, 'Bruiser.' On Tuesday, August 6, Witherspoon... Reese Witherspoon attends as Amazon debuts Inaugural Upfront Presentation at Pier 36 on May 14, 2024 in New York City. Dog mom Reese Witherspoon poses with 'Legally Blonde' co-star, 'Bruiser.' On Tuesday, August 6, Witherspoon mourned the loss of her real-life dog, Hank. Slaven Vlasic/Getty Images

Witherspoon's daughter Ava Phillippe also shared a shot of Hank on Instagram, writing, "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. 🤍"

No sooner than her post made it online, fans flocked to offer comforting words and support:

"We will miss Hank so much!!💔" came from one fan.

Another took a sentimental route, adding, "Beautiful Tribute to Hanky. ❤"

Expressing condolences, a third wrote: "Awe, may his presence live on through your memories. Sorry to hear that Ava."

Another heartfelt message read, "I'm so sorry Ava ❤️ sending love, this kind of loss is the hardest. He'll be with you and your family forever."

Witherspoon, known for her love and dedication to her furry family, is no stranger to this heartache of loss. She had experienced a similar grief almost four years earlier, in October 2020, when she mourned the passing of her French Bulldog, Pepper. "Our sweet Pepper passed away yesterday. My goodness, she was such a loyal and devoted family member...Now she's in dog heaven...Chasing tennis balls, running through open fields of wild flowers and being the Queen that she is," she wrote on Instagram at the time.

Three weeks after Pepper's departure from this world, the Golden Globe winner decided to expand their four-legged clan — introducing her fans to Minnie Pearl, a new French bulldog puppy joining the Witherspoon brood.

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