Dog owners join Walnut the dog in final walk on the beach

CORNWALL, ENGLAND — One dying dog had the walk of a lifetime after his owner invited other pet owners to join him on what would be his final walk on the beach.

Mark Woods is the owner of Walnut, an 18-year-old Whippet, who had been sick for some time. The Newquay, United Kingdom, man took to Facebook last Tuesday to invite other dog owners to Walnut's farewell.

"Sadly I am having to have Walnut euthanized on Saturday 12th November and so we will be having a last walk together on his beloved Porth Beach at 9.30am," he wrote.

"I would love it if dog lovers/owners and friends would join us for a celebration of Walnut on his favourite Porth Beach," Woods continued. "He has had an incredible life and having reached the grand age of 18 is ready for his final sleep."

Woods' plea for his "best friend" quickly went viral and many turned up Saturday to celebrate Walnut.

The hashtag, #WalkWithWalnut, even captured people's attention on Twitter. Those doggy friends who couldn't attend shared well wishes to Walnut on social media.

And just a few hours later, Walnut passed away.

Woods announced the news on Facebook Saturday afternoon, writing, "Walnut passed away this morning at 11.56am."

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"He went very quickly and in my arms," the British man continued.

He then went on to thank the "hundreds of people that attended the walk this morning and to all those that had their own walks with their beloved pets at 9.30am all around the world."

Woods ended his announcement by reminding everyone "just how lucky we are to be alive and to share in the wonderful world that our pets give us. God bless you all.

Cox Media Group