Taxi (1978)

S5E14 Alex's Old Buddy

Alex brings his elderly dog, Buddy, back from his sister's rural home. At 19 years old, Buddy needs a lot of attention, and Alex is determined to cherish every moment with him, taking Buddy along everywhere, even in taxis. The group soon notices that Buddy isn't doing well and gently encourages Alex to consider euthanasia, but he firmly declines. Jim proposes that Alex have Buddy perform his old trick of playing dead to gauge his health. Buddy manages to pull it off, causing a moment of panic when he doesn’t get up right away, but he's fine. However, when the gang next sees Alex, he sadly reveals that he had to take Buddy to the vet, where he passed away. Louie discreetly sends everyone away so Alex can grieve in peace, and alone, Alex allows himself to cry as the episode draws to a close.