Mark Wright’s return to the UK for Christmas has been marred by heartbreak after beloved family dog Scunny passed away.
The former TOWIE star has been over in Los Angeles for the past few months working as a showbiz correspondent on US TV show Extra.
He’d no doubt been looking forward to a family Christmas back in Essex when he got the sad news about Scunny’s death.
Paying tribute on Instagram, the ex reality star, 30, simply said: “RIP angel Scunny!! Gone but never forgotten.”
Mark has spoken out about the miniature dachshund in previous interviews, saying he and wife Michelle Keegan view their pets as children.
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He once told Star magazine: “My dogs are like my kids. We have lots of family dogs who all live together.
“My chihuahua is called Wrighty and the two miniature dachshunds are called Scunny and Milly. Michelle’s dog Phoebe, does amazing tricks, like rolling over and high fives.”
In another interview with Your Dog, the Essex star gushed over how important dogs are in his life.
“The best thing about owning a dog is the affection that they give you and being able to come home to them at the end of the day and give them a big cuddle,” he said.
“I also love to take them to the beach whenever I can and just spend as much time with them as possible.
“On Sundays I like to go on a dog walk with all of my family, including my wife, my brother, sisters, and my mum and dad – we have about 12 to 14 dogs between us so it’s always fun to get together!”
Mark’s wife Michelle certainly agrees, frequently posting photos to Instagram showing her cuddling pup Phoebe and hanging out with her mum’s dog Dougie.
The couple have been separated for months while Mark films Extra in the US and Michelle shoots the new series of Our Girl around the globe.
Naturally it’s led to numerous rumours about the state of their marriage – although both have always vehemently denied any trouble, saying they’re stronger than ever despite being apart for long periods of time.
Just two weeks ago, Mark paid tribute to his actress wife with a sweet post on Instagram.
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He said: “Done. 8 months away from home, away from loved ones. I’m so proud of you, words can’t even explain. [Michelle] you amaze me more & more every day.
“I’m so proud of you, words can’t even explain. It’s going to be the best Christmas ever!! I love you so much my little trooper.”
Aww!