Susanna Reid stepped in to support Rob Rinder as he fought back tears moments into Good Morning Britain.
The broadcasters fronted today's edition of the ITV news programme. The TV judge took to Instagram to share the sad loss of his beloved dog, Rocco.
Rob addressed his heartbreaking news at the start of the show as he showed his support for Good Morning Britain's 1 Million Minutes campaign to fight loneliness. He said: "It's not just people. It's about needing to have an emotional connection and feeling a sense of mission and purpose.
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"In my case, it was the structure of my day. Like lots of people I wasn't a dog person and then this beautiful, snoring creature came into my life and gave me absolute loyalty and unconditional love. There's nothing like the profound delight of arriving home and this beautiful creature being completely full of limitless joy just to see you. No human being will gift you that.
"Anyone who is a dog owner who has ever experienced that sort of loss will understand. I never thought I'd be this person. There are many people out there who might roll their eyes and shrug their shoulders and know there are big issues in the world
"To have had the gift of loyalty of a loving dog and to have lost that dog or a pet is a challenging thing. Years ago I might have been a bit sceptical of, but thank you for a beautiful loving life and I loved him very, very much."
Rob and Susanna are close friends away from the screen and she offered her support as fought back tears during the tribute. Viewers following the show on Twitter also sent messages of support to the judge.
Jennifer said: "Just want to send Rob my condolences I've been there I lost my rescue dog benji 3 years ago I still miss he every day but have since adopted another rescue dog Bart he's always so happy to see me when I get in from work. Xx"
Ana commented: "such a heartfelt story about Rocco. So sorry for your loss."
Gary posted: "Deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Roberts dog Rocco. My heartfelt condolences to him, as our pets are so special...Sleep well little Rocco."
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