Fans of Bachelor Nation couple Ryan and Trista Sutter know how important their family is to them, furry family members included. So it was with a heavy heart that Trista took to Instagram to share the sad news that their dog Tank passed away.

Trista started off her post by sharing that her husband Ryan, who she got engaged to on Season 1 of “The Bachelorette,” surprised her with Tank around 17 years ago.

Trista wrote, “Today, I say goodbye to my first baby…Tank, the 5 pound mountain Yorkie. Almost 17 years ago, Ryan surprised me with him in an airport parking lot knowing how much I wanted my very own pocket-sized fur baby.”

The former Bachelorette shared some of her favorite things about Tank, writing, “Our tiny Tankster was fearless and cuddly, had a crazy ability to pee while walking in a handstand, could jump at least 3 feet in the air, chased things that could’ve crushed him in one fell swoop (ie, bears and lots of neighborhood deer) and constantly licked the air, other dogs and our legs.”

Trista also shared some of Tank’s favorite things to do, including falling asleep to belly scratches, cuddling up with his siblings, and going to the groomer.

She wrote, “As hard as today will be, we’ve realized that it’s time to help him sleep. He’s lived a long full life growing up right alongside our human babies and I’m thankful for the chance to give him a peaceful exit from all the things that have gradually lessened his quality of life.”

Trista concluded her post thanking Tank “for blessing my life with unconditional love” and asked him to give their other dog Tosh “lots of kisses for us when you reunite with her over the rainbow bridge.”

Ryan also took to Instagram to share his own special tribute to Tank.

In his post, the Bachelor Nation star wrote, “You were five pounds of the toughest damn dog I ever met - right up to your last breath. The heart of a lion with the spirit to match, I will never forget our adventures together (thanks for one last one today) or the 17 years you dedicated to our family. Rest In Peace Tankster. We will miss you.”

Many of their fellow Bachelor Nation stars flooded the comments of Trista and Ryan’s posts to send their family love during this difficult time.

Ashley Iaconetti Haibon wrote, “Ugh I’m sooo sorry!” and fans also chimed in to send their prayers and support.