Anwar Hadid Mourns Death of Beloved Dog Dexter, Family Shares Emotional Tributes

Anwar Hadid is mourning the loss of his beloved dog, Dexter, and sharing how the 6-year-old dachshund changed his life.

On Saturday, Jan. 31, the model, 26, posted a heartfelt tribute on social media announcing that Dexter had died. Alongside three photos of the black dachshund, Hadid reflected on their bond and the role the pup played during one of the darkest periods of his life.

“Today my best friend in the whole world passed away,” Hadid wrote in the caption. He went on to share that Dexter entered his life at a time when he was struggling deeply, adding, “You came into my life when I wanted to end my life every day. And you left me today…. I’m more ready than ever to live this beautiful life.”

Hadid referred to Dexter as “my little son” and his “Sour Patch Kid,” writing that the dog would be with him “in every single lifetime.” The post was quickly met with an outpouring of love from friends, fans, and members of the Hadid family.

Sister Gigi Hadid, 30, shared a message of support in the comments, writing, “He was so special and so loved and very lucky to have found a soulmate in you brother:) Some of the best go too soon.” Their father, Mohamed Hadid, 77, also paid tribute, noting that Dexter had lived with him and Anwar for two years. “We have loved this beautiful creature,” he wrote. “He has the most beautiful face and eyes. We will miss him.”

Bella Hadid, 29, also commented on Anwar’s post before honoring Dexter with a tribute of her own the following day. On Feb. 1, the model shared a 17-slide carousel featuring photos and videos of Dexter alongside her own dog, Beans, accompanied by a poem she dedicated to the late pup.

“A poem from auntie to our Sir Hoyn Dextern the Third,” Bella began, describing Dexter as “Small body, Big and old in soul” with “a face like a baby” and “eyes that showed you have been on this planet many, many times.”

In the poem, Bella reflected on the lessons Dexter brought to the family, writing that he taught them “how to love harder, nap deeper, and take guarding your people very seriously.” She described Dexter as Yolanda Hadid’s constant companion and “half of Anwar’s heart,” calling him “the loudest love in the room.”

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer​​, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

“You were a human in a dog. A forever family member,” Bella concluded. “Run free, sweet Dexter. We love you so much.’