Cheems, the Shiba Inu dog who was known for his viral funny 'doge' memes, has passed away after a long and tough battle with cancer.
The owner of the 12-year-old Shiba Inu dog shared the sad news through her Instagram account on August 19.
"He fell asleep on Friday morning during his last thoracentesis surgery. Originally, we wanted to arrange chemotherapy or other possible treatment for him after this operation, but it is too late now," she said.
The owner urged the followers and supporters of Cheems to not feel gloomy. She told them to just remember the joy that his beloved pet had brought amidst the hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"He will always be inside my heart. I hope he can continue to bring joy to everyone in the online world, that’s my only humble request," she said.
Cheem's owner also sincerely thanked the medical staff who assisted his pet throughout the six months of his medication.
She said the money he previously gathered for Cheem's medical bills would be donated to local animal charities.
"Thank you, everyone, thank you, Balltze knows how much he was loved by all of you," the owner further said.
In 2017, Cheems became popular on all social media platforms for his picture where he looked snobbish while sitting on the floor.
This photo was then edited into various funny 'doge' memes, and later on was imprinted into sticker packs.
