'Just awesome': Internet hails Jon Stewart as 'The Daily Show' host helps raise $25K for NYC animal shelter after tearful tribute to late dog Dipper

MANHATTAN, NEW YORK CITY: Jon Stewart's heartfelt tribute to his beloved dog, Dipper, has had a profound impact on donations to a nearby animal shelter.

In a poignant moment during his regular hosting slot on 'The Daily Show', the 61-year-old comedian adopted a reflective tone as he honored the memory of Dipper.

Jon Stewart's emotional tribute to Dipper spurs generosity for Animal Haven

The brindle pit bull, who had lost his leg following a car accident in Brooklyn, found a home with Stewart and became an integral part of his family for more than 12 years.

“Dipper passed away yesterday,” Stewart said of his faithful furry friend on the February 26 'Moment of Zen' segment of the show. “He was ready. He was tired, but I wasn’t.”

"In a world of good boys, he was the best,” Stewart continued through tears, his voice breaking with emotion.

"He used to come to ‘The Daily Show’ every day. He was part of the OG ‘Daily Show’ dog crew. … And we’d come and tape and Dipper would wait for me to be done. He met actors and authors and presidents and kings," the show host added.

"He did what the Taliban could not do, which is put a scare into Malala Yousafzai," Stewart added. 

Stewart's heartfelt tribute to his late dog prompted an overwhelming wave of generosity toward Animal Haven, the rescue shelter where Dipper found his forever home.

Tiffany Lacey, the executive director of the non-profit organization based in Lower Manhattan, shared that over 500 individuals contributed donations, totaling nearly $25,000, in response to Stewart's mention on 'The Daily Show'.

Speaking to TMZ, she elaborated that the funds would be instrumental in supporting various crucial aspects of the no-kill shelter.

This includes provisions for the general well-being of their feline and canine residents, covering veterinary expenses, and facilitating activities like dog walks.

She emphasized that the sudden surge in donations arrived at a pivotal juncture for Animal Haven.

Presently operating at maximum capacity, the shelter accommodates over 100 rescued animals, among them a recently born litter of 20 puppies.

Jon Stewart's dog Dipper remembered fondly across social media

The news of Stewart's dog, Dipper's death, stirred a remarkable wave of empathy among netizens, reflecting the profound connection many felt with the beloved pet.

Across social media platforms, expressions of sympathy poured in from around the globe, with one social media user writing on X, "We are proud to be a little part of that $25,000. Condolences, Jon Stewart and family. RIP "Dipper.""

Another wrote, "Kind hearted people rock."

One took to TMZ's Facebook page and hailed Stewart by writing, "Not only does he love dogs but he's also being very vocal about standing on the RIGHT side of humanity, true Gem of a man."

"Aweeeeehe is just awesome! His love for his dog was so dear and tender. I love this!" said another. 

One viewer noted, "What a very admirable deed! Your love, empathy and generosity to the animals are beyond amazing. Thank you sooo much for serving as the LIGHT in their lives in all too often cruel and DIM world."

"So sad about his dog. Happy that something good happens as a result of his passing and that Jon Stewart shared his story," observed another viewer. 

One user wrote, "Jon stewart is the best," while another said, "Just an amazing rescue advocate."

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