Scotland's oldest dog put to sleep at age of 21

Sherlock, a Collie cross-breed, had to be put down after a lengthy struggle with arthritis in her legs left her unable to move.

She was named the oldest dog in the country in December last year after celebrating her 21st birthday.

But devastated owner Brian Thomson, from Penicuik, Midlothian, was forced to take the heart wrenching decision to put her to sleep after losing her battle with the illness.

And last night a distraught Brian, 62, revealed his beloved pet's death has left a void in the family.

He said: "It really was one of the hardest things I have ever had to do.

"She had lost her quality of life and I'd seen a real change in her over the last few months. It was heartbreaking."

"Sherlock had suffered two strokes and had developed arthritis which had been getting progressively worse.

"But the vet had always said she was still happy and was still enjoying her life. I knew a decision would have to made once that changed but it was still hard to do.

"She was an amazing dog."