The body of a springer spaniel that sparked a major search has been discovered in a river, more than a week after he went missing in Glen Nevis.
Andy Curran, the owner of Angus, made the sad announcement on Facebook.
The news was met with an outpouring of sympathy from well-wishers who had been following the search since the dog went missing on September 5.
Mr Curran said Angus’ body had been spotted at around 2pm at a section of the river that had been checked before, but the heavy rainfall seen in the area recently may have forced it free from a place where it was stuck.
He added: “I want to give the utmost thanks to every single kind-hearted soul who has given their time, support, donations and help in the search for Angus.
“I would particularly like to mention Helen, Davie, Penny, Kenny, Colin, the Lochaber athletics club, Glen Nevis Estate staff, John Muir Rangers, Drone SAR for lost Dogs, the Scottish springer spaniels group, Nevis radio, cyclists, kayakers, dog walkers, tourists, family and friends.”
Mr Curran said the “phenomenal” donations he had received would be given to Drone SAR for Lost Dogs and the Lochaber Mountain Rescue.
https://www.facebook.com/andy016/posts/10157960217873214
One commenter said: “So sorry to hear this! I think the whole of Scotland were hoping for good news for this lovely boy.”
Another added: “He clearly had a wonderful life with you and I hope those happy memories, in time, help ease the pain.”
Angus went missing at Lower Falls in Glen Nevis on the route towards Steall, with his owners initially believing he may have been stolen.
One of Mr Curran’s former colleagues in the army contributed drone equipment, thermal imaging cameras and his own scent tracking-trained dog to assist in the search.
At one stage, more than 20 people and two drones spent an entire day looking for the beloved pet.
The springer spaniel had been in Fort William staying with the parents of Mr Curran’s partner Jordan Reynuad.
Last Thursday, Mr Curran announced he was offering a reward of £1,500 for Angus’s successful return, with that amount being topped up by some private donations.