A family dog missing from a walk in Newtownards for a week, has been recovered by searchers.
Max a seven-year-old Doberman Pinscher, disappeared while out walking with his owner and their two other dogs at Clandeboye golf course.
Sadly yesterday, his body was found at the top of the hill in thick gorse behind Assisi animal rescue centre, Conlig.
A spokesperson for the family said: "Sadly we had to recover him, not rescue him and he appeared to have passed suddenly and looked unharmed.
""There are a number of people we wish to thank including each and every member of this page. We will get round to that later today so please bear with us.
I am sure I can speak for everyone and say that our thoughts and prayers are with all the Dunn family at this sad and difficult time.
Despite waiting overnight in the car park for him, the Dobermann never returned to the car.
Sonya Dunn said her husband called her to come and take their other dogs home so he could go on searching for him that night.
"My husband became increasingly concerned and went out to look for him. He rang myself to come for the other two dogs as they were cold and hungry (but) still no sign of Max.
"My husband stayed up in the car park until after 6am on Friday."
After a few hours at home Sonya said he continued the search and notified green keepers about what had happened so they could keep an eye out for him.
Sonya said the whole family is "absolutely devastated" as they lost their cat suddenly in August as well.
So far, she says they have covered all the ground possible and even brought in a dog that can detect noises. The children, neighbours and well wishers have also been helping to search for him since Thursday night.
"It's out of Max's character not to return," added Sonya.
Sonya said the much loved pooch loves his comfort and that it is "killing" the family "not knowing what has happened" to him.
"Dobermann are prone to cardiac attacks which is instant," she added.
"This is the only thing we can think of."
The mum said she can't thank those helping to search for him enough as they have "been fantastic" and is urging anyone who may have seen Max to get in touch with her on Facebook or by calling 07830 296064.
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