Lady Gaga’s dog walker is in a stable condition after being shot four times in the chest by thieves this week

And after being rushed to hospital in a “grave” condition, Doctor Fred Pescatore, a friend and former client of Ryan’s, has now confirmed he is awake and “breathing on his own”.

Fred told People magazine he had received a text message from Ryan on Thursday (25.02.21), and the pair spoke about his condition.

He added: "The thing he texted was not even about him. It was, 'I miss you. I love you. Thank you.’ ”

People magazine also spoke to Los Angeles Police Captain Jonathan Tippet, who also confirmed Ryan’s condition and said he believes the dog walker will make a full recovery.

Following the harrowing incident, Ryan’s assailants made off with Koji and Gustavo, whilst Miss Asia fled the scene and was later recovered by police and returned to one of Gaga’s bodyguards.

The ‘Shallow’ hitmaker – who is currently in Italy – is now offering $500,000 in exchange for her dogs to be returned to her unharmed, as a representative for the star said this week she will give the money “to anyone who has her dogs, no questions asked”.

It's not yet clear whether the thieves were specifically targeted by the shooters, however, the French bulldogs are each worth a substantial amount of money.

They can sell for anywhere between $1,500-$3,000 on average, but those with a particularly sought-after pedigree have been known to sell for as much as $10,000.