Loyal dog who stayed by owner's side for two days after tragic death in South Yorkshire has been re-homed

South Yorkshire Police officers attended the home of a 64-year-old man named Mark following concerns for his welfare and together with other emergency services found him deceased in his bathroom having suffered a heart attack, with his dog Marley by his side.

Marley – a much-loved 11-year-old Akita-Shepherd mix-breed – had been waiting loyally and anxiously by his owner’s side at the South Yorkshire property for a couple of days after the discovery in September, according to police, and he had not eaten in all that time.

But PC Paul Jameson and PC Rachael Attwell were so concerned they went beyond the call of duty to ensure Marley was happily re-homed to the relief of the deceased’s family.

Mark’s sister Clare said: “My brother had always expressed that if anything ever happened to him, that he wanted Marley to go to a good home.

“He had made my family aware of this in a letter, laying out Marley’s likes and dislikes.

“Mark knew that I would not be able to care for [him] and that our parents are too old to take care of him. Marley was very loved by Mark and it was important to us that he received the best care and love for the rest of his life.

“We were so afraid that Marley would be put to sleep and that’s where our interactions with PC Paul Jameson and PC Rachael Attwell started. They both assured me and my family that Marley would be taken care of, and would not be put to sleep. Paul even sent me photos of Marley in the kennels, showing me he was okay.”

Marley was taken to kennels temporarily while Clare put out a social media appeal to find him a new home and she joined forces with PC Jameson and PC Attwell.

Following careful consideration, Mark’s family met a man called David who for medical reasons needed an older dog, who would prefer short walks, but could offer companionship.

Clare added: “I went to meet David and his wife at their home and immediately knew that their extended family would be perfect for Marley. With the help of PC Jameson we introduced Marley to David and his family, with mine and Mark’s parents watching.

“I have since been to see Marley in his new home and took my mother and father who take great comfort in seeing that he is happy and well. Mark and Marley were each other’s best friends. Marley was anxious and depressed following Mark’s death but it’s great to see he is now thriving and enjoying life.

“We couldn't be happier, it has brought such comfort to our family and I would like to express on behalf of myself and our family huge thanks to PCs Jameson and Attwell for their dedication to their unit. Their kindness helped my family through the most difficult time we have faced.”

A police spokesman said the force recognises that dogs are part of the family and its dog legislation officers always have the best intentions for pets and their families.