These snaps of a loyal pooch show how he refuses to leave his owner’s side, even during his man’s time in hospital, and later at his funeral.

The pooch gained fame on social media after being snapped curled up on a chair next to his owner’s coffin at his funeral in the Brazilian state of Amazonas.

In a post that has since been shared over 600 times, the victim’s niece, Gisele Sicsu, who lives in the municipality of Parintins, wrote on Friday 21st May: “My uncle sadly departed today, but he took with him one certainty, that he was much loved by his faithful companion.

“This love was reciprocal because Uncle Paulo, even in the intensive care unit, did not stop asking for his dog.

“His dog accompanied him from the ambulance to the cemetery. It was heartbreaking to see him licking the dead body in the coffin.”

He said that the pet dog was like a son to her uncle and added: “They had to hold him so that he did not jump inside the grave. I have never seen a love as true as this one.

“We humans should learn to love other people as animals love their owners. Rest in peace, Uncle Paulo Sicsu.”

Facebook user Jackson Roger, who is a friend of the victim, commented on the post saying: “My condolences to the whole family and especially to the dog. He really is a best friend.”