Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
Dancing with the Stars judge Derek Hough is mourning the passing of his beloved dog, Romie, following 14 years together.
Hough shared an emotional video and photo tribute on Sunday, October 25, 2026, honoring his longtime canine companion at his residence in Los Angeles, California 90028, United States.
Toria Sheffield reported on Hough’s tribute for PEOPLE and Yahoo News on October 26, 2026.
Hough adopted Romie in 2012 from a Los Angeles rescue shelter after volunteering as a dog walker.
He reflected on how Romie stood by him throughout major life milestones, including his marriage to Hayley Erbert Hough and the birth of their daughter, Everley Capri, in December 2025.
Hough expressed gratitude that Romie held on long enough to meet his newborn daughter before passing away.
In his public message, the professional dancer described the profound grief of waking up without his constant companion of 14 years, describing the loss as an unbearable ache that reflects deep love.
Family members, friends, and fans offered overwhelming support to Hough and his family as they navigate the loss of their rescue dog.
My thoughts:
- Rescue pets often form deeply transformative bonds with their owners over long lifetimes.
- Navigating the loss of a senior pet requires time, compassion, and emotional processing.
- Senior dogs frequently display remarkable resilience when sharing milestones with growing families.
- Shelters and rescue organizations provide life-changing adoption opportunities for animals and owners alike.
- Publicly sharing pet grief helps validate the emotional impact of losing a beloved animal companion.
- Honoring a pet’s memory creates lasting comfort during periods of deep bereavement.
Source: PEOPLE Magazine (Toria Sheffield) and Yahoo News
