Hugh Forshaw of New Era Veterinary Hospital died suddenly on Monday, according to a message posted by his former colleagues on their Facebook page.
And hundreds of Island families who have been taking their pets to Hugh for care and looking after over the years responded with heartfelt tributes.
By this morning, more than 300 people had paid tribute to a man universally described as a kind and loving vet.
One Islander described him as a “wonderful, caring, and compassionate Vet” while another said he had always been “so kind and gentle with our animals”.
The statement from Hugh’s former colleagues at New Era said: “It is with the deepest regret and profound sorrow we announce the very sudden loss of our friend and highly respected colleague Hugh Forshaw. Our thoughts are with Hugh’s family and we ask that you respect their privacy at this difficult time.”