Earlier this week, a very good boy named Scout, known by his social media handle scoutgoldenretriever, tragically passed away at the age of six. If you were one of his 238,000 Instagram followers, you are aware that this sweet therapy dog was a ray of sunshine, more than willing to give hugs to those who needed it. In a 2018 interview with Daily Barker, his owner Melissa Heinonen noted that he had been spending time in “nursing homes, senior living facilities, and colleges for stress relief clinics” since he was just over a year old. He also soon began wearing his signature free hugs signs, where he lived in Portland, Oregon. Melissa explained that “people would often ask if they could approach him to say ‘hello,’ so [she] decided to put the sign on him to let the world know that he indeed was always open to their love and affection.”

Melissa took to Instagram on August 2, 2021 to share that her canine companion was having health issues. After noticing that he had lost his appetite, the former nurse had taken him to the veterinarian, where he was “diagnosed with cardiac Hemangiosarcoma.” The day following that devastating announcement, she asked Scout’s followers to share “[h]ow [he had] inspired [them].” Quite a few fans flocked to the comments section to fulfill Melissa’s request, with many noting how special the Golden Retriever was.

“He showed that no one is alone. If there is a dog, you are not alone,” wrote one social media user, along with a red heart emoji.

“You guys have been putting a smile on my face for 6 year[s]! What you do for people and for dogs is just incredible. We love you Scout and family and are here for you. Sending love, light, and strength your way,” added another commenter.

“Watching Scout encouraged me to do therapy work with my Golden. And, that was life altering. Some of the most touching posts are Scout hugging and loving on folks that were homeless. Scout... you touched my soul and inspired me to be a better human,” chimed in a third follower.

On August 4, Melissa revealed that her furry friend had passed on. She included a gorgeous shot of herself hugging the sweet pup while looking at the ocean.

“I’m extremely heartbroken to share that Scout has passed. He went peacefully at home with his family and surrounded by so much love.I hugged him one last time and promised him I would continue his legacy, continue to inspire, spread kindness and never let his gifts to this world be forgotten. I’m not sure right now what that looks like, but he will let me know what to do when the time is right.Thank you all for loving and supporting us, being such wonderful friends to us and for being a part of his life’s story,” read a portion of the post.

She also encouraged her late pups followers to “give [their] dogs a big Scout Hug tonight.”

Our hearts break for Melissa and her family. Rest in peace, Scout, you lovely boy.

In Memory Of Scout, The World’s Best Hugger

Proudly Featured On: