Jennifer Garner mourns a heartbreaking loss just before Thanksgiving

This year has been challenging for Jennifer Garner and her family, marked by the heartbreaking loss of the actress’s father in late March. On top of this, they have faced intense media scrutiny following Ben Affleck’s relationship and subsequent split from Jennifer Lopez. Now, just before Thanksgiving, the Garners are grieving once again as they say goodbye to a beloved family companion.

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Just days before Thanksgiving, Jennifer turned to Instagram to share heartbreaking news with her followers. "It is hard to know how to write this— it seems nuts, given the world, to mourn a pet, but since we have shared Birdie with all of you, it only seems fair to let you know of her passing," the actress wrote, posting a collection of photos and videos of her adorable golden retriever.

"Birdie let us know on Thursday that she wasn’t feeling herself (a renowned foodie, Birdie never missed a meal). We were surprised to learn that, not only was she very ill, she was at the end of her life. The vet told us that dogs often hang on until their person comes home from college and we believe Birdie did just that, so that we could pet her soft ears together and thank her for being the world’s best dog," the Elektra star continued.

© Jennifer Garner

Jennifer painted a vivid picture of Birdie’s vibrant personality, from her love of storytime to her knack for comforting others. "Birdie loved to be read to, always found her way into a Pretend Cooking Show, and knew just how to give people what they needed (as evidenced by her happy days as a dog therapy team with Mo). She lived a happy dog life and is now in the role she was born to play: angel girl."

In her final reflection, she wrote, "It’s a gift to love and be loved by such a creature as Birdie the Doggie. 🐾🪽"

Jennifer’s eldest daughter, Violet, began her studies at Yale University this August. While Jennifer didn’t mention her by name, she alluded to Violet’s presence during Birdie’s final moments, suggesting she had returned home for the Thanksgiving holiday.

© Jennifer Garner

Birdie, who was around nine years old, joined Jennifer’s family after her 2015 separation from Ben. Over the years, the golden retriever became a beloved companion and a fan favorite, frequently appearing on Jennifer’s social media and even co-starring in the YouTube series Books with Birdie. Her presence brought joy not only to the Garner family but also to Jennifer’s followers worldwide.

Kids are spending Thanksgiving with Ben

While mourning Birdie’s loss, the family also prepared for Thanksgiving. Reports revealed that Jennifer’s children would spend the holiday with their father, Ben Affleck, who took a break from filming his movie RIP with Matt Damon to be with his kids.

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A source told People that Ben is 'very happy with his life' and 'enjoys working,' adding that he has been 'in great spirits and fun to work with.' Although it wasn’t confirmed whether Jennifer joined him for the celebration, the former couple is known for their strong co-parenting dynamic and often comes together for meaningful family moments.