Celeb pooch dies

New York - A dog declared by the Guinness Book of World Records to be "the animal photographed with the most famous people" has died of cancer.

Lucky Diamond died on Tuesday in New York. The Maltese was about 15 years old, according to her owner, Wendy Diamond, who dedicated her life to animal welfare.

The dog starred in photo ops with celebrities ranging from Kristen Stewart of Twilight fame to hip-hop star Snoop Dogg and actress Betty White, herself an animal welfare advocate.

In November, the Guinness Book of World Records announced that Lucky was "the animal photographed with the most famous people". Her total at the time was 363, including Kim Kardashian, Richard Branson "and many more", Guinness confirmed on Tuesday.

Diamond and Lucky visited Russia, Greece and Mexico while advocating for animals. Fans worldwide posted supportive Facebook messages after Lucky's diagnosis of spleen cancer in February.

"She made me realise how lucky I am, no matter what transpired in my life," said Diamond.