Al Rocker and his family are in mourning over the loss of their sweet dog Pepper.

The Today show host took to Instagram to share the devastating news on June 11. Pepper was 12 years old. Roker wrote:

“Twelve years ago, this sweet little girl named Pepper changed our lives,” he continued. “Yesterday, we had to say goodbye. While our hearts are heavy, they are also fuller because of all the love she bestowed on everyone who got to meet her.”

The Today host did not share any details about Pepper’s death.

According to an article by The Today Show, the Roker’s adopted Pepper in 2012 from a Pennsylvania rescue facility. Al posted about Pepper a lot on his instagram account. Also, Deborah Roberts (Al’s Wife), an ABC News Reporter, posted an Instagram remembrance with pictures of Pepper, and the family.

“She arrived on my birthday. Wasn’t even supposed to be ours. The rescue coordinator had promised the perfect pup for us. A beautiful mop looking mutt who would be gentle with kids,” she wrote.

“She arrived on my birthday. Wasn’t even supposed to be ours. The rescue coordinator had promised the perfect pup for us. A beautiful mop looking mutt who would be gentle with kids. Nick wasn’t fond of dogs. But this 8 week old little black and white ball of fur brought along for the ride, jumped into Nick’s lap and stole the show.”

“For 12 years , Pepper continued to do just that. A quiet sweetheart. Months later during the Christmas chaos of gift unwrapping she pooped under the tree. We eeewwed and screamed and laughed. The unconditional love affair had begun.”

“Soon, Pepper became my shadow. My girl. Next to me whenever and wherever. Moping when I traveled. Looking for me around every corner. A spark in the occasional darkness. Just content to be near. How is it that a little spirit can so happily give and ask for nothing in return? “

“Only Loving hugs. Pepper stole the show and stole our hearts and those of so many friends and relatives. Even those who never liked dogs. Pepper was different. The warmest companion anyone could ever ask for.

“Today I woke up to a world without her. A quiet house. Her toys and beds …still. No wagging tail. Yet, Her warmth still lingering. Our hearts are aching. But wow. What a beautiful gift of memories she gave. We miss you dear Pep! “

Recently, Al posted a photo of Pepper on Instagram in May. He talked about how Pepper had surgery for a health scare. He wrote

“Our little girl, Pepper had emergency surgery but is on the mend. She’s getting great care and is coming home tomorrow. Woof. You can sleep on our bed as much as you want.”

Rest In Peace sweet Pepper.