Adam Rickitt has thanked a vet for saving his dog after a mystery illness.
The 41-year-old actor rushed his pet pooch Rufus to a veterinary practice in Knutsford, Cheshire, following a severe sickness that left him fighting for his life.
He has thanked lead vet and owner of Knutsford Vet Surgery, Dr Paul Adams, for his care.
Adam is quoted by the Cheshire Standard as saying: "It was one of the scariest and most upsetting experiences of my life.
"To see my best friend go from being so full of life and energy to being lost and knocking on death\'s door broke my heart.
"Every night I had to say goodbye just in case, and it was only thanks to the incredible efforts and care from Paul and the team at Knutsford Veterinary Surgery that he has battled through."
The canine underwent three days of investigative procedures before he could return home, though the staff are still unsure of his illness.
And Paul has sent a warning to other pet owners to be cautious of the mystery sickness and the potential dangers it could have on their beloved pooches.
He added: "Although Rufus showed such fight and determination to pull through it was the prompt nature at which his owners sought veterinary attention that saved his life."
The lead vet explained how the \'Hollyoaks\' star had noticed his dog failed to eat anything for days, causing stress and a lack of nutrition.
He added: "After not eating for nearly three days, it was important that we placed a feeding tube. It helped to deliver vital nutrition and medication, remove stress and ultimately get him home much sooner.
"We advise any other owners noticing similar symptoms to seek veterinary attention right away."
