Dancing With The Stars judge Derek Hough has received an outpouring of support after revealing the death of his beloved dog, Romie, in a heartfelt Instagram post.
Hough, a judge on the US spin-off of Strictly Come Dancing, shared a video of his pet of 14 years alongside a lengthy tribute describing the loss as "unbearable".
Emotional tribute to Romie
In the post, Hough reflected on the bond he shared with Romie, writing: "Romie came into my life when I was just trying to figure life out, it was just me and him. And for a long time, he was my constant. He saw me at my worst and at my best."
He added: "He loved me through it all and somehow gave me purpose when I couldn’t find it myself."
Hough also recounted how Romie stayed by his side through major life milestones, including the birth of his first daughter, Everley Capri Hough, with wife Hayley Erbert in December last year.
Support from family and co-stars
The star was flooded with messages from friends, family, and colleagues. His sister, Julianne Hough, a host of Dancing With The Stars, wrote: "Wrapping you in love."
Fellow DWTS judge Carrie Ann Inaba commented: "I'm so sorry Derek... I know there are no words in moments like this.... we are sending you and your family extra love during this time. What a beautiful life you gave each other... all the way to the end... together. Sending so much love. He will never be far..."
DWTS contestant Jenna Dewan also offered her condolences, writing: "Ohhhh i know this pain so well. Romie is your angel spirit now, still with you. Sending you and the family so much love."
Other fans and friends shared similar messages of sympathy, with one writing: "May the goodest boy rest in peace, having lived a life of happiness and full of love."
