Only a dog lover will understand the depth of Kristen Saban’s sorrow. The love that Nick Saban’s daughter has for dogs has always been a defining part of her life. It began in childhood, nurtured by the presence of her family’s beloved dog, Ray Ray. That bond, filled with unconditional love and companionship, shaped her heart in a way that would later guide her into finding her own four-legged soulmate, Gunner. 

For 14 years, Gunner wasn’t just a pet. He was her constant companion, her silent confidant, her first baby before motherhood entered the picture. He was there through the highs and the heartbreaks, always offering his unwavering presence. But on November 24, 2024, Kristen was forced to say a painful goodbye. Her heart still ached for the little bundle of joy. On March 10, months after his passing, she shared a quiet, tender moment in her Instagram story, an image of a furry head resting peacefully on what looked like her lap. And her caption sums up the emptiness she feels inside from his absence—“Oh how I miss you 🖤”

The news of Gunner’s passing was shared in an emotional Instagram post, filled with words that carried the weight of a shattered heart. In a post filled with ten cherished photos of Gunner, Kristen opened up about a difficult goodbye last November. “I had to say goodbye to my first baby yesterday after 14 years of the most magical companionship,” she shared, adding, “If you knew Gunner, you loved him as much as I did.” She reminisced about their deep connection, the way he brightened her days, and how their bond felt unbreakable.

But time, as always, had its own plans. “I couldn’t have asked for a better pup. I’ll miss you forever, Gunnies.” Kristen Saban’s tribute was a testament to the kind of love that transcends words. Even in loss, she found gratitude for the years they shared and for those who have helped care for Gunner along the way. “A massive thank you to everyone at @cahabamountainbrookac who cared for Gun over the last 8 years of being here in Birmingham. Angels,” Kristen added. The loss of a family member is always a tough reality to handle, and Nick Saban experienced a similar situation with Ray Ray. 

Compassion for dogs runs in Kristen Saban’s family

The pain of losing a beloved pet is immeasurable. For the Saban family, it had been a particularly difficult period when they lost Ray Ray in 2023. “We’ve gone through some really, really gruesome times the last few weeks with our dogs,” Nick Saban said, according to Touchdown Alabama. “We finally got a new dog, Abby. We are very, very thankful that Miss Terry has something at home she can love.” 

Abby, the Golden Doodle, has since become a part of the Saban household, offering warmth and new beginnings in the wake of loss. Although Kristen Saban has embraced this new chapter, the echoes of her beloved pet’s presence still linger in her heart. Gunner may be gone, but the love he gave and the memories he left behind remain woven into the fabric of Kristen’s life. 

Some bonds are eternal, and for Kristen Saban, Gunner will always be her first baby, the one who taught her the depth of love, loss, and the unbreakable connection between a person and a dog.