Serena Williams pens heartbreaking tribute following her dog's death

 By 
Tricia Gilbride
 on 
Original image replaced with Mashable logo
Original image has been replaced. Credit: Mashable

Serena Williams shared pictures of her adorable dog, Jackie the Jack Russell Terrier, following her furry friend's passing.

Williams wrote a touching tribute to Jackie Baila Pete Williams, who she adopted 16 years ago -- two weeks before she won her first Grand Slam.

[seealso slug="shelter-pig-dogs"]

"She was with me from 1999 until today and I miss her so much. 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," wrote Williams. "I feel so lucky to have such a special friend. Give your dog, cat, pet a big hug."

Today really is hard for me. My special friend in which I got at 17 (2 weeks before I won my very first Grand Slam) left me today. 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. 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. 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. I feel so lucky to have such a special friend. Give your dog, cat, pet a big hug. #breakingheart #bff Jackie Baila Pete Williams I will miss you and your memory will live forever. A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 10:52am PST

My angel A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 10:55am PST

Jackie- Lauralei, Chip, and Mommy miss you so much. We will never forget u. ❤️ thank you for the kindness and joy you brought us. A photo posted by Serena Williams (@serenawilliams) on Nov 24, 2015 at 11:07am PST

Williams has her two other pups, Lauralei and Chip, to keep her company during this heartbreaking time.

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