'First Dates' star Laura Tott is "beyond heart-broken" after her pet dog was shot dead.

Laura Tott (c) Instagram/Laura Tott

Laura Tott (c) Instagram/Laura Tott

The Channel 4 show's waitress has been left devastated after her pet pooch Lucy was gunned down during a walk, and she has paid a tribute via social media.

Laura wrote on Instagram: "For those asking, Lucy was shot and killed whilst out walking yesterday.

"Beyond heartbroken, thank you so much for all the messages, means a lot."

Laura shared another picture of her late dog, and she added the caption: "Life can be so cruel sometimes. Rest in peace my Lucy. Rescuing you was the smartest thing I've ever done. You were the best thing that's ever happened to me."

The grieving star also posted an adorable picture of her and Lucy lying on the carpet together, gazing into each other's eyes, and she thanked her late four-legged friend for all the joy she gave her.

Laura wrote: "Thank you for being the best friend I could ever wish for. You were taken so early, I only had you a year but you brightened up my whole life and everyone else's too [broken heart emoji] i rescued you but you rescued me too [heart emoji] Rest in peace now my absolute nutter (sic)"

Laura previously worked as a waitress and barmaid for years before signing up to 'First Dates', which stars maître d' Fred Sirieix.

She was also a member of the Royal Navy, with HMS Raleigh in Cornwall, and worked for the NHS before becoming a television star.