Ecuador's firefighters said that, a rescue dog that helped in saving the victims trapped under rubble in the recent deadly earthquake in Ecuador, died from heatstroke while performing his duties.

In the Ibarra fire department’s K9 unit, Dayko, a 4-year-old Labrador was part of the rescue team, that has been working to find survivors following a 7.8-magnitude earthquake, about 100 miles from the capital of Quito.

According to the associated press, at least 654 people lost their lives and another 58 were missing. Dayko took the responsibility of finding all the missing ones.

The fire department on its Facebook page, uploaded several photos, showing a golden Labrador retriever crawling over and under debris, searching for the survivors. Reportedly, the rescue dog saved 7 people before dying.

Responding to the issue, the Ibarra fire department said, "We regret to inform you that the Ibarra fire service is in mourning because we have lost Dayko, who took part in the search at Pedernales.”

“This four-legged friend gave his life in the line of duty. Thank you Dayko for your heroic efforts in Pedernales and in various emergencies where you were present. You held high the name of the K9 unit.”

Through autopsy, the department found out that, the rescue dog died after suffering a massive heart attack and acute respiratory failure.

According to Banfield Pet Hospital, Unlike human beings, dogs cannot sweat from all over the body and so there are more chances to get the heatstroke in hot weather. If there is no immediate treatment, the heat exhaustion can damage heart, liver, kidneys, brain and further lead to death.

According the statement released by BBC, Dayko's handler, Alex Yela said, it "amazed everyone with his friendly character."

By Phani Ch