A drink-driver's pet has stolen the show after his owner was stopped four times over the legal alcohol limit.

Bryan Househam was arrested by Avon and Somerset Police following reports of a grey Toyota RAV4 veering across the M5 near Dursley on September 13.

The 69-year-old was trailed by officers to Michaelwood service station where he gave a breathalyser reading of 142mg - more than four times the limit of 35mg.

But it was Househam's partner in crime golden retriever that took centre stage after bodycam footage of the stoppage was released by police.

In the video shared on social media, Househam rolled down the window of his SUV only for his dog to stick its head out and sniff the officer's arm.

The pooch then clambered up from the back seat before it was petted by the officer who questioned Househam who smelled of alcohol, police said.

Facebook users were quick to point out the adorable dog which was saved thanks to the report made by a fellow motorist driving behind the drink-driver on the motorway.

One person commented: 'That dog's saying "I told him" and even nods when he says have you been drinking.'

Another said: 'Aw bless the dog. So pleased someone phoned it in. Saved dog's life and others.'

While a third added: 'With a dog in the car too! Unbelievable! The poor pooch if anything serious had happened.

Fortunately, arrangements were made for a family member to collect the dog after Househam was arrested on suspicion of driving while over the legal limit.

Househam, from Brant Broughton, Lincoln, appeared in court where he was disqualified from driving for 23 months on October 8.

He was also ordered to pay £2885 in fines.

An Avon and Somerset Police spokesperson said: 'This case highlights the importance of members of the public reporting concerns about the standard of someone’s driving.

'The information provided enabled officers to quickly locate the vehicle and take positive action. 

'Driving under the influence of alcohol puts not only the driver at risk, but also other road users and passengers.'

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