A rescue dog who helped save people from the rubble of the devastating earthquake in Ecuador has died.

Dayko, a four-year-old Labrador, died of a heart attack after suffering from heatstroke last week, the City of Ibarra Fire Department said on Facebook.

Image: City of Ibarra Fire Department/Facebook

Image: CITY OF IBARRA FIRE DEPARTMENT/FACEBOOK

Following the magnitude 7.8 quake that left at least 650 people dead, Dayko took part in a rescue operation in Pedernales that saved the life of eight people.

The fire service crew paid tribute to Dayko on a Facebook post:

"We regret to inform you that today the Cuerpo De Bomberos Ibarra Ibarra is in mourning because we've just lost our dog Dayko who took part in the rescue in Pedernales.

Image: CITY OF IBARRA FIRE DEPARTMENT/FACEBOOK

"The dog, who had national and international certifications, passed away in the early hours of the morning. Our four-legged friend gave his life in the line of duty.

"Thanks Dayko for your heroic efforts in Pedernales and in other occasions."

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