Vanessa Bryant Mourns The Loss of Another Dear Friend, ‘Sweet Crucio’ in Touching Post

Vanessa Bryant announced that her family’s dog, Crucio, had passed away. In a poignant Instagram tribute to her and late husband Kobe Bryant’s beloved black Labrador retriever, she included photos of their pet wearing different bandanas around his neck—including one that says “happy birthday.”

“We love you, Crucio. Thank you for everything sweet boy,” Bryant captioned her post. “Thank you for watching over us. We’re going to miss you.” She also added the hashtags “#GoodBoy” and “#RestEasy.”

Last month, before the two-year anniversary of the tragic helicopter accident that killed Kobe and daughter Gianna Bryant, she posted a video of the dog comforting her.

“Crucio (always tries to lick my tears),” she wrote, adding in heart and dog emojis.

Among the images posted, Crucio could be seen staring directly into the camera with a red bandana around his neck. Crucio had just celebrated his 11th birthday in January that was documented in a video the family shot of them singing Happy Birthday to him.

He could be seen licking a couple of tasty birthday treats as they sang the traditional song.

Natalia also shared an emotional tribute to the longtime family pet, writing via Instagram on Friday: “I truly have no words except for the fact that Crucio was the best dog I could have ever asked for. To the most handsome, loving, selfless and brave dog- you will forever be missed. 🤍🐾”