Kirk Herbstreit’s beloved dog, Ben, has died

On November 8, 2024By Littum

A golden retriever who became a college football icon has died.

ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit announced Thursday that his beloved dog Ben, a constant companion on his weekly football trips across the United States, died of cancer that had spread throughout his organs.

“This is really hard to write but so many of you have loved and cared for Ben that I wanted to tell you,” he wrote on X. “I’ve had dogs all my life but Ben was 1 for 1. He was smart-loving-patient-curious-and welcoming to everyone. Always a big smile and a soft tail wagging. He and I could communicate.”

“He and I understood each other and had each other’s backs. He was with me more than anyone else at home and traveled with me to work. Such a relaxed companion. Hard day – but he will live in all of us forever. God, please bless his majestic soul and thank you for putting him in my life for the past 10 years – a true blessing. Love you, Ben.”

Ben, a big, fluffy golden, had enjoyed a growing presence on social media and ESPN/ABC broadcasts in recent years.

He became a certified emotional service animal in 2023 and began joining his father on full-time road trips.

He often appeared on the field with his own media pass, interacting with other live mascots, hanging out in locker rooms and team facilities, and joining his father in production meetings.

But his main job was to give Herbstreit a piece of home while he’s away working Amazon Prime’s Thursday night football games, Saturday’s “College GameDay” on ESPN and Saturday night’s primetime game on ABC.

Herbstreit said earlier this week that he had undergone chemo injections to slow the cancer, which had caused him to lose the use of his back legs and lose his appetite. Other treatments, such as a vitamin C IV were also unsuccessful.

“I am so grateful for ALL the love so many have shown him over the past few years,” Kirk wrote. “One of the hardest things I’ve been through in my life. Ben is my best friend and companion. I love him with all my heart.”