Serena Williams paid a pre-Thanksgiving Day tribute to her departed dog Jackie.
In a poignant post on social media, the world No. 1 shared her sadness over the death of her beloved 16-year-old dog.
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Serena adopted Jackie two weeks after she won her first Grand Slam title at the 1999 US Open.
"She was 16 years young and up until a few days ago was still sprinting. Her poor body gave out this morning and she had a way of telling me it was time for me to be brave and let her go," Serena wrote on this Instagram post. "With my dad by my side we were able to say a loving goodbye. She was with me from 1999 until today and I miss her so much."
Williams, who often practices with her dog, Chip, on court, expressed gratitude for the joy Jackie brought to her life and urged followers to share the love and give their pets "a big hug."
"I got out of the shower this afternoon and she was not there to lick my leg as she always did everyday to remind me how much she loved me," Serena wrote. "I feel so lucky to have such a special friend. Give your dog, cat, pet a big hug."
My angel
A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on
Photo credit: Sports Illustrated