Former Emmerdale star Dean Andrews has shared a heartbreaking goodbye to his family dog.

Andrews, who played Will Taylor on the soap between 2019 and 2024, took to Instagram to share the sad news that his dog Raymondo had died.

Sharing a series of pictures of the dog growing up, Dean wrote: “Nearly fifteen years ago @helenbowensomething_ gave me what turned out to be the most special, beautiful present I’ve ever received……. Raymondo!”

He continued: “He was the most stunning of puppies and throughout his time with us became the most stunning of dogs. He was loyal, loving, patient, calm, caring, thoughtful and perfect! Yesterday Helen and I had to heartbreakingly say goodbye to the lad. Even for this wonder dog time had eventually caught up with him. It is without doubt one of the hardest things we’ve ever had to do. He was such a special boy! One in a million!!

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“The love for him wasn’t just ours…. It was equalled throughout our family. Everyone wanted to cuddle Raymondo and everyone loved their time spent with him. Our hearts are broken without him but filled with love for the boy who brought love and joy into our lives. The 1st photo is his first as part of our family and the last photo is his last photo before he found his peace.”

Thanking his wife Helen for bringing the beloved pup into their lives, he concluded: “Gratitude will always be to @helenbowensomething_ for gifting me something so special and our love will remain for the stunning, beautiful and most loyal lad anyone could wish for. Night beautiful boy we love you always.”

Fans flooded Andrews’ comment section with messages of support, with one fan commenting: “I’m so sorry to hear this sad news he was certainly a beautiful looking dog sending love to you both.”

“What a handsome boy. So sorry for your loss sending love to you and your family and that very sad time,” penned another.