Former This Morning star Ruth Langsford has shared a touching tribute following the devastating loss of Gemma Atkinson’s beloved dog, Norman. 

Gemma, 39, took to her Instagram page on Monday to reveal the heart-wrenching news to her followers, accompanied by a moving montage of memories with her cherished pet.

As part of the emotional post, Gemma told fans that her “heart is broken” after facing “the hardest decision” regarding Norman’s wellbeing.

The video tribute featured numerous moments with Norman, his furry pal Ollie, and Gemma’s daughter Mia, aged five.

Shortly after Gemma posted her sad news, many of her two million followers quickly responded with messages of support.

Including TV personality and fellow dog lover Ruth, who commented: “Oh Gemma, I’m so, so sorry. I can only imagine your pain.

What a wonderful life you gave him… hold your memories close. Sending love.”

Naga Munchetty from BBC Breakfast also offered her condolences, saying: “So sorry for your loss and the heartbreak xx.”

Strictly Come Dancing’s It Takes Two host Janette Manrara additionally sent her sympathies, writing: “I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending you all the love in the world,” reports the Express.

Gorka Marquez, Gemma’s fiancé and a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing, expressed his grief with a series of heartfelt emojis.

Ruth herself understands the deep bond between a dog and its owner, having adopted her rescue collie cross Maggie over a decade ago, with her estranged husband Eamonn Holmes.

In an interview with The Telegraph, the couple excitedly discussed just how much joy she had brought into their lives.

“She’s just adorable,” Ruth exclaimed. “We love her so much. You come home and you’ve had a tough day, a long day, whatever, and I see her and she sees me, or Eamonn, and you see her tail going, and then she runs off, and I know it’s because she’s getting a toy from her basket to bring you.

“It’s just the loveliest thing. And you forget everything you were worried about, annoyed about, cross about.”

Eamonn also shared Ruth’s sentiments during the conversation, but he intriguingly remarked: “If my wife loved me the way my dog loves me, I’d be a very happy man.”

The pair, who parted ways in May after 14 years of marriage, have since been navigating their separation. Post-split, it seems Ruth has taken on the primary care for Maggie.

A source disclosed to The Sun that Eamonn’s recent health struggles might influence the ultimate decision regarding who will permanently keep the dog.

“Maggie is like a daughter to them. They dote on her. But she’s getting on and they know she needs stability,” the insider commented.

“It’s a case of who can give her that. Eamonn adores her and Maggie’s been such a support during his health woes.”

“The thought of giving her up is heartbreaking to him. But if Ruth is able to get out and about and walk her more, then it may well be that she gets Maggie in the split.”