Country music icon Jason Boland has cancelled his upcoming gigs following the death of his beloved bulldog Gary. The star was scheduled to play shows with his band The Stragglers on May 14 and 15 but issued an announcement on Instagram explaining they would be rescheduling the gigs.

In a post on their official Instagram page headed "Rescheduled" a statement from the band, who have been together since 1998, read: "We’re very sorry to share that Jason Boland & The Stragglers will need to postpone their shows in Columbia, MO and Little Rock, AR due to a sudden personal loss. Jason and Mandy lost their dog Gary this evening, who meant the world to them and was part of their family and The Stragglers family for many years. The Columbia, MO show originally scheduled for May 14 has been rescheduled to July 23. The Little Rock, AR show originally scheduled for May 15 has been rescheduled to June 13," it explained.

It continued: "All previously purchased tickets will be honored for the new dates. Thank you for understanding and respecting their privacy as they take time to be with each other."

Jason and the band were flooded with support following the announcement as fans, friends and colleagues rushed to offer their sympathies in the comments.

One wrote: "Very understandable !!!! that day will come for myself, and I do not know how I will handle it , condolences for you and your family."

Another added: "I'm so sorry to hear this. Thanks for sharing Gary Stewart Boland with all of us. He was the goodest good boy."

A third chimed in: "Love and grace to you guys Jay and Mandy, appreciate y’all taking the time to grieve such an integral part of your family. Big love to y'all!"

A fourth recalled spending time with the much loved pooch sharing: "My husband and I played with Gary once on the lawn in front of Gruene Hall. We had just lost our own English Bulldog and he brought us a ton of joy. So sorry for your loss.

A fifth lamented: "RIP Gary Stewart. You made your mom and dad very happy. Such a good boy."

Meanwhile a sixth commented: "Not Gary!!!! Sweet boy, y’all gave him the best, full life. Luckiest bulldawg around."