Risa enjoyed a long and lavish life.
The 16-year-old dog was Gabriel Iglesias‘ beloved pet. The comedian announced the senior dog’s death in an Instagram post on Sept. 7.
“Risa made me so happy for almost 17 years. She was there for me during the best of times and the worst of times. She died in my hands while I kissed her face, telling her how much I loved her,” Iglesias wrote in the caption of the post, which features a video of Risa excitedly getting closer to her pet parent.
The text over the adorable clip reads, “I lost a big piece of my heart. Risa Forever.”
Along with announcing the sad news on Instagram, Iglesias exclusively shared his thoughts on Risa’s memory with PEOPLE several days after the dog’s death.
“Risa only weighed 4 pounds but could make her presence felt in any sized room. She was there during my greatest and worst moments in life, loving me unconditionally the entire way,” the comedian tells PEOPLE.
Those familiar with Iglesias never doubted his devotion to Risa, who frequently appeared on her owner’s social media account.
In May, Iglesias posted a photo of himself cuddling with Risa and the caption, “When people ask me what makes me happy. Risa will be 17 in December. She is always with me and hates any girl who tries to get close to her daddy.”
Iglesias made headlines in Dec. 2022 after he threw Risa an extravagant quinceañera for her birthday. Today reported that the comedian spent over $100,000 on the event, which included a carriage for Risa, three custom-ordered dresses for the dog, and a guest list of over 300 people.
Partygoers were treated to a feast of al pastor, bacon-wrapped hot dogs, carnitas, and esquites and entertained by Cirque du Soleil-inspired performers, dancers, and musicians.
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In an Instagram post on Dec. 3, 2022, Iglesias called the birthday the “party of the year” and shared a video of Risa arriving at the event in her pink carriage.
Risa is survived by Iglesias’ other pup, Vinnie, who appeared at Risa’s quinceañera in a grey suit.
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