Detectives say that a family dog could have provided a vital clue in the death of two women at a house in Macclesfield.
They say the discovery of a Jack Russell, believed to be called Jacki, found alive in the house, has allowed them to rule out carbon monoxide poisoning as a cause of death.
The bodies of Rachel Clayton, 34, and Emma Speed, 30, were discovered at a house in Crompton Road, on Sunday, April 7.
So far post-mortem tests have proved inconclusive.
Investigating officers have asked for toxicology tests, which normally take up to six weeks, to be fast-tracked. They have confirmed that women’s bodies were found in the same room.
It is thought that Rachel was looking after the pet which she shared with her parents Malcolm and Sue Clayton, of Poynton.
The couple paid tribute to their daughter, saying: “Rachel enjoyed life to the full. She was a special daughter and was very family orientated. We will miss her greatly.”
Rachel’s friend David Cottell paid tribute on Facebook.
He said: “RIP my dear friend Rachy Clayton! Will never forget our crazy times together!
“The laughs and even the tears! Heartbroken! Will have a drink for you.”
It is understood the bodies were found by a friend known to both women who had a spare key to the house. Neighbours said six police cars, two ambulances and a fire engine attended the scene.
Emergency gas engineers from National Grid were also called to the property on the Sunday evening. No gas was found to be escaping after tests of the gas supply inside and outside the property. Rachel had worked as a chef on an oil rig in the North Sea for seven years and was believed to have been halfway through a three-week holiday.
Forensic officers spent most of last week at the house. Nobody else is wanted in connection with the deaths.
