Kirk Herbstreit posts heartbreaking health update on his dog Ben, requests prayers

Kirk Herbstreit revealed an important update on his beloved dog, Ben, on Monday after he wasn’t with him at ESPN College GameDay before Week 10.

Ben, who was diagnosed with leukemia in March, had been travelling with Herbstreit to many of his assignments all over the country this season. He’s been receiving the royal treatment of sorts at each stop, and has become a fan favorite along the way.

“I’ve had so many people asking me about Ben that I wanted to let you know-Ben had a 2nd chemo injection on October 23rd and from that day has been getting worse and worse,” Herbstreit revealed on X. “He has lost use of his back legs-almost like they’re paralyzed. He can barely walk. He hasn’t eaten in 3 days. I’m currently in Pennsylvania with a holistic Dr who is administering a 3 day Vitamin C IV hoping it will flush the toxics from his body and give him a chance.

“The next 24-48 hours will tell us if he has a chance or not. I’m so thankful for ALL the love so many have shown him over the last couple years. One of the hardest things I’ve gone through in my life. Ben is my best friend and companion. I love him with all of my heart. If you’re a spiritual person I’d love for you to pray for my boy. He’s currently in an ER hospital overnight and I’m picking him up tomorrow for another round of Vitamin C. Please pray for Ben and hope he pulls out of it.”

During the offseason, Herbstreit revealed that Ben underwent “major surgery’ in late July to remove two different masses on his spleen and intestine. Both of which were cancerous.

Herbstreit added that he believes having Ben out on the road for as long as he did this season lifted his 10-year-old puppy’s spirits and gave him something to look forward to each week. All anyone can hope is that he’s able to make it back on the road before the season’s over.