Howard Stern’s Bulldog Bianca Passes Away

It’s a sad day for Howard Stern. The American Idol host and his family lost their beloved 10-year-old bulldog Bianca.

Howard tweeted the news on Tuesday night before the live episode of America’s Got Talent.

According to People Magazine, the Stern’s had a very close relationship with their dog. Howard had Bianca’s name tattooed on his arm and his wife, Beth Ostrosky Stern, posed with Bianca on the cover of her book, Oh My Dog. Bianca was also a member of the wedding party at Stern’s 2008 wedding.

Stern wrote:

“Tough day today my friends. Thanks to all for all the kind messages. Give your dog a hug for me tonight.”

Beth also sent out a message about their dog. Ostrosky Stern wrote:

“We lost our precious Bianca today. My sweet little girl, may you rest in peace. I love you forever….All of your kind words are helping me through the saddest day of my life. thank you.”

Animal Tracks reports that Stern has been involved with several animal rights campaigns and Ostrosky Stern became the official spokesperson of the North Shore Animal League America (NSALA), an organization devoted to rehabilitation of rescue animals. The Sterns, who adopted Bianca in 2002, have also adopted three cats, Apple, Walter and Leon Bear, from the NSALA.