First Dog Henry, Gov. Eric Holcomb's miniature schnauzer, passes away at 13

First Dog Henry, the beloved miniature schnauzer of Gov. Eric Holcomb and Janet Holcomb, has died. He had recently turned 13.

Holcomb announced Henry's passing on X Monday night, sparking an outpouring of sadness and support.

"Henry brought so much joy to Hoosiers young and old, two-legged and four-legged alike," Holcomb wrote. "He was more than a family pet to me and Janet as he gifted us daily with his funny, loving ways that we’ll treasure forever."

Henry received his official "First Dog" state badge a few months after his dog dad was sworn into the governor's office. The pup joined X when it was called Twitter, took part in viral social media challenges, helped a couple get engaged and then played ringbearer at their wedding ― and later played a part in their gender reveal. He's walked in parades, helped out at fundraisers and gotten many, many pats and treats along the way.

"Henry’s exuberance for life will be missed, and his place in our hearts never replaced," Holcomb said on X.

Monday morning, in an interview with IndyStar just hours before the announcement of Henry's death, Holcomb mentioned that Henry has been "a little under the weather."

"But if I had if I had to say what I'm most proud of," he added, "Henry would be on top of the list."

Contact IndyStar state government and politics reporter Kayla Dwyer at kdwyer@indystar.com or follow her on Twitter @kayla_dwyer17.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Gov. Eric Holcomb's First Dog, Henry, passes away