Thank You, Tucker

Tucker Budzyn (source: https://www.instagram.com/tuckerbudzyn)

I woke up this morning to Courtney’s (Tucker’s owner) video on my feed announcing that Tucker passed away a few days ago due to further complications from cancer.

While this brings me indescribable pain and sadness, I want to take a moment to share how much joy Tucker brought into my life, and I assume into yours too. His videos were always a reliable source of happiness and comfort, no matter what kind of day I was having. He was the internet’s most beloved dog for a reason. Especially for me, someone who doesn’t deliberately look for cute animal videos, would still find myself heading back to Tucker’s channel from time to time, watching him do taste tests with Journey or Todd, or just running around in the grass. 

Tucker also inspired me in a quieter way. Watching how easily he could make people smile, just by being himself, made me want to try and bring a little more joy and happiness into the lives of the people around me too. I know I’m nowhere near as naturally good at it as he was. He had this pure, effortless ability to spread happiness and joy that most of us can only admire from a distance. Still, because of him, I find myself trying harder to be kinder, a bit more playful, and more willing to share moments of happiness with others, either through conversations, or through this blog. Even if I fall short most of the time, I’m grateful he showed me it’s worth the effort.

Tucker in the snow (source: https://www.instagram.com/tuckerbudzyn)

Thank you, Tucker, for bringing so much joy into the lives of millions of people. I, along with so many other followers, love and miss you deeply. And I’d like to thank Courtney and Mike for sharing Tucker with all of us, and for being so open about his condition. You didn’t owe anyone an explanation, but I really appreciate that you chose to share it with us. I wish you both all the best during this especially difficult time, and please know that you have our support.

If you, my dear reader, would like to leave a message or share your own tribute to Tucker, please feel free to do so in the comments. 

Once again, thank you for everything, Tucker.