On August 18, 2023, the legendary pup behind iconic early-2010s dog memes passed away after failing to wake from a surgical procedure to treat cancer.
Known as Cheems Balltze, the 12-year-old Shiba Inu had become an internet sensation following his incorporation into memes centered around a passion for cheeseburgers, with his image being used in various other meme formats as well.
On his official Instagram account, Cheems' owner posted an update for over 800,000 fans detailing how the pup had passed.
"Ball Ball (one of his affectionate nicknames) fell asleep on 18/8," the caption read. "He fell asleep on Friday morning during his last thoracentesis surgery. Originally, we wanted to arrange chemotherapy or other possible treatments for him after this operation, but it is too late now."
Cheems' Hong Kong-based owner then urged followers to not feel sad, but instead to celebrate the joy that the adorable dog had brought to so many.
"Please remember the joy that Balltze brought to the world," the caption continued. "A Shiba Inu with a round smiling face connecting you and me, he has helped many people during the pandemic and brought a lot of joy to many of you, but now his mission has completed."
Following the pup's death, the owner has also promised to donate the money raised for Cheems' cancer treatment (through donations and brass pin purchases) to a local animal charity.
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Cover image sourced from @balltze/Instagram.
