KEYTAKEAWAYS
- Kabosu, known globally for the 'doge' meme, died peacefully in her sleep, marking the end of an era that influenced internet culture and cryptocurrency.
- Her image spurred the creation of Dogecoin, growing from a humorous initiative to a significant crypto community asset, celebrated by icons like Elon Musk.
- Tributes include a $100,000 statue and over $1 million in charitable donations, reflecting her impact beyond the digital world into philanthropic efforts.
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Kabosu, the Shiba Inu famous as the ‘doge’ meme icon and inspiration behind Dogecoin, passed away at 18 on May 24, leaving a lasting legacy in memes and crypto.
(source: Variety)
Kabosu, the beloved Shiba Inu who captured the hearts of millions as the face of the viral ‘doge’ meme and the inspiration behind Dogecoin, has passed away at the age of 18. Her owner, Atsuko Sato, a kindergarten teacher from Sakura, Chiba Prefecture, shared the heartbreaking news on her blog on May 24th, recounting Kabosu’s peaceful passing in her sleep.
Today Kabosu, our community’s shared friend and inspiration, peacefully passed in the arms of her person. The impact this one dog has made across the world is immeasurable.
She was a being who knew only happiness and limitless love.
Please keep her spirit and her family in…
— Dogecoin (@dogecoin) May 24, 2024
The world first fell in love with Kabosu in 2010 when Sato posted a photo of the rescue dog on her blog. Kabosu’s crossed paws and endearingly quizzical expression quickly became an internet sensation, spawning countless memes and even an NFT that sold for $4 million in 2021.
(source: CoinMarketCap)
Kabosu’s influence extended beyond the digital realm, inspiring the creation of Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency that began as a lighthearted joke but has since grown into a phenomenon with a dedicated community and substantial market value, often boosted by endorsements from notable figures like Elon Musk.
Kabosu’s image has been embraced as a symbol of “happiness and limitless love” within the Dogecoin community, leading to heartfelt tributes such as a $100,000 statue erected in her honor in Sakura and generous donations exceeding $1 million to charities like Save the Children.
OG Doge has ascended to heaven to be with his friend Harambe
— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) May 24, 2024
>>> Other dog-inspired memecoins:
- Dogwifhat (WIF) : A Dog Wearing A Hat
- $BONK: The Meme Coin Revitalizing Solana
- Shiba Inu (SHIB): The Dogecoin Killer
Sato, in her emotional farewell, reflected on the extraordinary journey she shared with Kabosu. Despite the unexpected global fame, Sato cherished the “unbelievable” experiences that unfolded, from seeing Kabosu’s image used in countless creative and charitable endeavors to the countless connections forged with people around the world who were touched by her beloved pet’s spirit.
Kabosu’s legacy lives on, not only in the countless memes and the thriving Dogecoin community but also in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness her infectious joy and gentle nature. As the internet mourns the loss of this iconic Shiba Inu, her memory continues to inspire smiles and spread warmth, reminding us of the simple yet profound happiness that animals can bring into our lives.
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