Chris Smalling Devastated After Dog Dies Following Suspected Poisoning

Chris Smalling has been left devastated after his beloved dog Miley ate rat poison, leading to her death. 

The 30-year-old is currently on loan at Roma and has been in impressive form for the Serie A side this season. 

The poison was spread in the garden of Smalling's home in the Italian capital, with his two other dogs Ruben and Summer also falling ill. 

The centre-back posted an emotional tribute to his pet on Instagram, describing Miley - a cocker spaniel-Jack Russell cross - as a 'special soul'. 

"Now a very, very big part of my heart is missing. Anyone who knew me and Miley knew we were inseparable," the post read. "People often joked how I had two women in my life. When I first met Miley I was afraid of her. I grew up with many different neighbours with aggressive dogs thinking that’s how all dogs are. 

"Without her I wouldn’t of found the connection and compassion that I was missing towards all animals. I could never have imagined just how much of an impact she would have on my life. You were a special soul and we were truly blessed that you came into our lives."

Smalling's wife Sam Cooke also posted a message addressing Miley's shock death, claiming that the poison had been placed in their garden without the couple's knowledge. 

"When Miley collapsed the vet found a tumour and put the internal bleeding which led to her death down to that, but it turns out that wasn't the problem," Cooke stated (via the Mirror).

"A few days Ruben and my mum's dog got ill and, although dismissed by vets, we realised that they had all eaten rat poison that had carelessly been put in our garden uncovered without our knowledge. Obviously Miley being older and smaller was affected the most.

"Big love to all our furry friends and especially Miley who will be in my heart forever."

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