Tributes have been paid to a “remarkable” dog who saved countless lives in Wiltshire.

On Saturday Hampshire Search and Rescue Dogs announced the death of Zak, a Border Collie who spent 11 years helping teams search for vulnerable people.

Wiltshire Search and Rescue revealed that, during his career, Zak visited the county “countless times” to help save the lives of locals in danger.

Zak “dedicated his life” to the search and rescue cause, after beginning his long service when he was just nine weeks old.

His “exceptional skills” were obvious, and he was soon deployed on his first search with handler Kev.

Swindon Advertiser: Zak and his handler KevZak and his handler Kev (Image: Hampshire Search and Rescue)

In total he participated in over 300 searches, scouring landscapes with “unwavering dedication” in all weathers to help vulnerable people.

After retiring in 2020, Zak enjoyed a leisurely life and was presented with the PDSA Order of Merit, at a special ceremony, to acknowledge his “exceptional devotion and tireless efforts”.

In a heartfelt tribute, a spokesperson for Hampshire Search and Rescue Dogs said: “Zak's passing leaves a void that can never be filled, but his memory will endure as a shining example of selflessness, dedication, and the profound impact that one remarkable canine companion can have on the lives of many.

“May he rest in peace, knowing that his pawprints are forever imprinted on our hearts.