This is the heartwarming moment a loyal disabled dog was found waiting beside his elderly owner's body after he passed away on a farm in Thailand.

The canine's owner, Nim Phakchai, 88, was discovered dead in the middle of a cassava field in Nakhon Ratchasima Province on Thursday, March 6.

Police found him curled up on his right side, with his four-legged companion, named Dukdik, guarding his lifeless body. The faithful pooch refused to leave, even as the searing heat climbed to a sweltering 38 degrees Celsius throughout the day.

Heart-wrenching footage shows the sorrowful canine slowly walking towards the ambulance where its owner's body was placed.

Lantom Phuengkhuburi, the grief-stricken daughter of the deceased, explained that her father had suffered from both diabetes and high blood pressure. Over the past months, he had been battling forgetfulness and often spoke of a longing to revisit places from his past.

However, he had never wandered far from home until that day. Lantom believed her father had gone out to visit a place he once owned, which he had sold long ago, but he had become lost along the way.

She realised her father was missing the previous night before he was found.

Villagers helped search for him and a drone was used until footprints were discovered in the cassava field. Following the tracks, they found the elderly man.

Authorities have urged families to give closer care and attention to elderly relatives, especially those with medical conditions.

Dukdik was safely taken back home by the family of its late owner.

Dogs have long been recognised for their strong bond with humans, often referred to as man's best friend. Studies have revealed their remarkable loyalty and ability to form deep emotional connections with their owners.

Their companionship has been shown to provide emotional support, reduce stress, and even improve overall well-being for many people.