'They're very special little creatures, dogs': Brooke Boney's touching reflection after beloved pug Reuben dies

Nine Entertainment reporter Brooke Boney has shared some devastating news, her beloved pug Reuben has died.

Posting on Instagram, Boney revealed on Friday afternoon that her little pup's "heart gave out" following surgery to remove a tumour.

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"I've had Reuben since he was a pup and for nearly my entire adult life," Boney wrote.

"He was definitely the more boisterous of the pair so it's come as a bit of a shock. He had a tumour and we rushed him into surgery but his little heart gave out as they were stitching him up. They're very special little creatures, dogs. We're really going to miss him ❤️"

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In May last year, Boney penned a touching article for The Sydney Morning Herald where she reflected on the ethical issues of prolonging Reuben's life and her deep connection to her two pugs.

"I've had my two pugs for more than 12 years: nearly my entire adult life. They've been there with me through a divorce, job changes, hangovers and heartbreaks. Whether or not they know it, they've been there with me through some of the worst times in my life," she wrote.

Boney's post today touched a number of her followers, who also reflected on their own connections to their furry companions.

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"Aww no 😢 That's heartbreaking. They're like our babies, aren't they. Love you ❤️❤️" one follower wrote.

"Oh my goodness I'm so so sorry to hear. We are lucky to have dogs and to suddenly lose a part of your family would be very heartbreaking. Sending love❤️," another person shared.

"Sending so much love. Dogs really are the best ❤️," shared a third.