Carrie Fisher with her service dog Gary.Photo:David M. Benett/Getty

Carrie Fisher attends Marina Rinaldi launch of new atelier on July 3, 2014 in London, England

David M. Benett/Getty

Carrie Fisher’s beloved pet has died.

The star’s French bulldog Gary — who often accompanied his late dog momto red carpets and eventsin the yearsbefore her death at age 60— “crossed over the rainbow bridge” on Jan. 30, according to a post on thedog’s official Instagram account.

Carrie Fisher and her French bulldog, Gary.Lou Rocco/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

The cast of “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” are guests on “Good Morning America,” 12/3/15, airing on the Walt Disney Television Network.

Lou Rocco/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty

“The first 5 years with Carrie and Gary were amazing and when she left us Gary and I continued on for the next 8 years. He never left my side and he was truly my best friend. His heavenly birthday is in 3 weeks and he would’ve turned 13,” the death announcement on Gary’s Instagram continues.

The post ends with a loving suggestion for Gary’s fans. To celebrate Gary and “give him a proper send-off,” McCoin asks that his followers share photos of the dog on his Feb. 21 birthday.

Commenters on the post have already started sharing fond memories of the French bulldog. “Playing with him outside the Chinese Theatre after watching The Last Jedi when he was wearing his cute wee X-wing pilot outfit was cathartic and a memory I truly cherish,” wrote one, while another added, “Gary was such a bright light just like his mom, we love you so much Gary and always will.”

Fisher ended up adopting Gary through her daughter, Billie Lourd. “I live for Gary,“Lourd toldTodayin a 2016 interview. “He was mine first, and she actually stole him from me because she fell in love with him.”

Gary Fisher the dog.Gary Fisher/Instagram

Carrie Fisher’s Dog Gary passed away

Gary Fisher/Instagram

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Gary and Fisher formed a strong bond, and the brindle-colored pup became the star’s service dog. Fisher said that the companion provided much-needed emotional support, which helped her manage her bipolar disorder.

“Gary is like my heart,” Fisher toldThe Herald Tribunein 2015. “Gary is very devoted to me, and that calms me down. He’s anxious when he’s away from me.”

source: people.com