Boyzone singer Keith Duffy has said his family are “distraught” after the death of their beloved dog.
The 48-year-old told how his children Jay and Mia were particularly hurt by the death of 15-year-old Lenny.
He broke the sad news on Instagram along with pictures of the pet and wrote: “My children are absolutely distraught and devastated this morning as their best friend of nearly 15 years, their doggie Lenny (Len Len), passed away and has now gone to doggie heaven."
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“He was such a huge part of our family and played a vital role as their best friend as they grew up. It’s amazing how human-like he was.
“When either of the kids were sad or unwell he wouldn’t leave their side he was a huge support mechanism to them and us. All life is precious, even our pets. So long Len Len.”
His son Jay, 25, is a Hollyoaks actor and daughter Mia, 23, recently completed her a degree in enterprise computing.
Friends, family and fans offered their condolences. His Boyzone bandmate Ronan Keating said: “So Sorry Dus. Heartbreaking.”
Presenter Glenda Gilson wrote: “Aww no... so sad.” Another commented: “So sorry for your loss.”
Another said: “So, so sorry for your and your family’s loss. Run free on the Rainbow bridge, beautiful Len Len.”
A fan wrote: "So sorry to read this. Dogs are absolute earth angels, they’re so good at minding us and the glue in the family, it’s a huge loss," a third said.
"Hope Len Len meets up with Paul O’Grady, I’m fairly certain he’s gone to doggy heaven."
"All life certainly is precious, go gently."
"Aww bless you all !! Rest in beautiful doggy paradise Lenny !! Love to you all xx"
And another follower said: "So sorry for your loss. Fly high over the rainbow bridge Lenny."
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