Losing a pet isn’t just losing an animal, it’s saying goodbye to a family member who gave you unconditional love every single day. And of course, it doesn’t matter if you’re a celebrity with millions in the bank or someone living on the street without a dime to your name, your pet will love you just the same.

Take Jimmy Fallon, for example, and the love he felt for his family’s “first baby.”

On Tuesday, the Tonight Show host took to Instagram to share the devastating news that his family had lost their beloved golden retriever, Gary, a cherished companion who had been by their side for over 13 years.

In a deeply personal post, Fallon reflected on what Gary meant to their family, opening with a line that perfectly captured the weight of his heartbreak:

“She was the last name we signed on every birthday card.”

From there, Fallon painted a touching portrait of a dog who was so much more than a pet.

“She was our first baby, a therapist, a pillow, a big sister, a schoolmarm, a comedian, a party girl and [sic] a rebel.”

Accompanying his emotional words was a carousel of photos showing Gary’s beautiful life, from playful puppy days to cozy family moments.

Family games

One image showed Fallon lying beside her on a bright orange rug, the two perfectly at peace. Another showed Gary surrounded by Fallon’s wife, Nancy Juvonen, and their daughters, all smiling and adorned with flowers.

First met in 2017

Referring to his daughters, Franny, 10, and Winnie, 12, and his wife Nancy Juvonen, 58, Fallon shared, “Franny, Winnie, Mommy, and I miss you so much. The house feels emptier without you, so quiet that it almost hurts. Slowly, that quiet is being filled again with memories of you and laughter between the tears. Thank you for everything you gave us. We miss you more than words can say. Goodnight, Gary.”

Fallon fondly recalled Gary’s silly habits and how she’d leap into the pool moments after a bath, then roll in the grass “doing bunny kicks with her tongue sticking out.” Her joy, he said, came to define summer itself.

“She loved a good scratch and would lean into you if she liked you, though ‘if’ is generous — she did this for basically everyone.”

at Love and loss and I’m so sorry. We only get them for a short time but they come to open our hearts.”

And Jane Goodall’s account wrote: “Gary and Dr. Goodall will have great adventures together .”

Fans echoed those feelings with messages like:

“Gary will continue to watch over all his Fallon Family forever smiling ,”
and

“Thinking of you and your family during this difficult time. I loved seeing clips of Gary over the years especially during your Covid show thanks for sharing Gary with us too.

The Fallon’s furry baby was more than a pet — a true family member whose love will live on in their hearts. Each day without them will be felt, but the memories and joy they brought will never fade.