New Zealand’s official police guinea pig passed away and we can’t cope

Say it ain't so.

It's always a sad affair when an animal passes away. It's even worse when that animal is a guinea pig, because guinea pigs are class, and even more heartbreaking when that animal is a guinea pig loved by thousands because he's New Zealand's official police guinea pig. Apparently, they have them over there. Constable Elliot was a four-and-a-half-year-old piggie who frequently donned a tiny police vest and even tinier police hat. He sadly passed away on Sunday after battling a short illness. According to a rather emotional Facebook post shared by his colleagues at New Zealand Police, Elliot was also:

"... a chilled-out, relaxed little fella who would curl up in a ball on your lap like a cat, but was brave enough to face up to bigger animals thinking he was a dog."

The full post reads:

"It's with great sadness that we announce Constable Elliot's passing. The adorable guinea pig passed away peacefully after a short illness at midday on Sunday 20th August 2017. He was four and a half years old. He is greatly missed by his Wellington family, especially his eight and six-year-old humans, who loved to care for, and play with him. He will also be missed by his police family, who he enjoyed working for over the last year, spreading prevention messaging about crossing roads, safer driving and avoiding burglaries. He was a chilled-out, relaxed little fella who would curl up in a ball on your lap like a cat, but was brave enough to face up to bigger animals thinking he was a dog. Four feet in heaven - we will miss you little guy."

Little Elliot was clearly a big hit with the locals because his eulogy has over 8,000 likes already. Elliot's fans and friends are sharing their heartbreak online. One user said: "R.I.P. constable Elliot, though your passing is very sad it's good to know the rainbow bridge will now have a constable to guard its gates." Another said that he hoped Elliot's funeral would "feature a 21 carrot salute. Rest well, constable." When he was alive, Constable Elliot could often be found chewing grass, lying down, or promoting safe driving around children. He was a good piggy, and he will be missed.