Chances are you have no idea who Kirk Herbstreit is. He's one of ESPN's U.S. college football reporters/anchors and he's been doing the job a long time. So long, in fact, that he was able to bring his dog named Ben with him to various assignments. 

The beautiful Golden Retriever became something of a celebrity at the games he covered, becoming an honourary team mascot in every stadium and even being given official status as "Coach of Happiness" on a printed badge he wore. The crew, players and the crowds all fell in love with the pup, and he became famous in the stands and on the network. 

Which is why it was heart-wrenching for Herbstreit to have to tell viewers that his beloved Ben had passed away from cancer at the age of 10 this week. 

If you've ever had a pooch as a pet, you know how devastating it can be to lose your best friend, a child-like creature that never grows up but gives so much more back to you than you can ever repay. 

The reporter created a brief 2-minute video tribute to his lost pal, and tried to introduce it on the network this weekend. But he broke down on camera, openly weeping in grief, leaving his colleagues to introduce the piece, instead.

As a five time dog lover and owner, it's hard to watch. But such real emotion rarely comes through in the staged world of television. So watch it if you want. But be aware it turned me into a puddle. And having been through it so many times, I know exactly where he's coming from. 

But it was some amazing and very honest TV.

Ben you were a really good boy. And you will be missed.

ESPN's Farewell To Ben