For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond

The heartwarming ITV series, For the Love of Dogs, has captured the hearts of viewers for years. Now, with the beloved presenter Paul O’Grady passing the torch, it’s time for a new chapter. Enter Alison Hammond, who is ready to dish out dog treats and set tails wagging as she takes on the role of the show’s new presenter. In this six-part series, Alison heads to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, where she shares the stories of the animals and helps them find their forever homes.

Introduction

Alison Hammond, a familiar face on TV, is stepping into the shoes of the renowned presenter Paul O’Grady in the award-winning ITV series, For the Love of Dogs. In this brand new six-part series, Alison embarks on a journey to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, where she meets the animals in their care and helps them find new homes.

The Love for Dogs at Battersea

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home has been a sanctuary for abandoned and stray dogs for many years. With the number of dogs in need of care increasing, Alison is determined to shed light on their stories and the incredible work done by the staff and volunteers at Battersea. She dives into the heartwarming tales of the latest arrivals, giving viewers a glimpse into their lives and the challenges they face.

One of the first dogs Alison encounters is a tiny three-week-old pup who was heartlessly discarded in a bin. As she feeds the pup, named Oscar, she is reminded of the precious bond between a mother and her child. Alison’s compassion for these animals shines through as she wonders how anyone could abandon such a helpless creature.

A Spaniel’s Journey

Alison’s journey at Battersea also introduces her to Nelly, a nine-year-old spaniel. Nelly’s owner could no longer care for her due to illness, and she found herself in need of a new home. Alison witnesses the devotion of the Battersea staff as they care for Nelly and prepare her for an upcoming operation. Despite her challenges, Nelly’s resilient spirit shines through, captivating Alison’s heart.

Overcoming Challenges

In her role as presenter, Alison witnesses the dedication of the Battersea team in providing medical care to the dogs. She is particularly moved by the story of Pluto, a dog found abandoned in a cemetery with a broken leg. The surgeons at Battersea work tirelessly for five hours to try and save Pluto’s leg, but unfortunately, an amputation becomes necessary. Alison eagerly awaits the opportunity to visit Pluto and see how he is progressing.

The Magic of Battersea

Alison is not only impressed by the medical attention the dogs receive at Battersea but also by the overall care and dedication exhibited by the staff and volunteers. She discovers that each dog is treated with utmost love and attention, even enjoying classical music sessions and spa-like grooming experiences. The attention to detail and the level of care provided leaves Alison in awe of the Battersea team.

The Importance of Support

While Battersea Dogs & Cats Home works tirelessly to care for these animals, financial support is crucial to their mission. Alison is amazed by the generosity of those who leave money in their wills to support the organization. With no government funding, the donations and fundraising efforts are the lifeblood of Battersea. Alison emphasizes the need for ongoing support to ensure that these dogs receive the care they deserve.

Alison’s Connection

As Alison spends more time at Battersea, she finds herself falling in love with the dogs and their unique stories. She admits to having a soft spot for dogs with imperfections, recognizing that they, like herself, are not perfect. Her affection for these animals leads her to consider fostering dogs in the future, as a way to provide temporary care and love for those in need.

A Therapy Day

For Alison, visiting Battersea Dogs & Cats Home is like having a therapy day. The joy she experiences in meeting the dogs and hearing their stories is immeasurable. While there are moments of sadness and challenging surgeries, witnessing the resilience and happiness of the dogs after their treatment is truly incredible. Alison is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of their journey and share their stories with the world.

As Alison Hammond takes on the role of presenter in For the Love of Dogs, she brings her own unique charm and compassion to the series. Her love for dogs and dedication to sharing their stories shines through in every episode. Through her journey at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, she not only helps these animals find their forever homes but also raises awareness of the incredible work done by the staff and volunteers. For the love of dogs, Alison Hammond is making a difference.

For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond starts on Tuesday 16 April 2024 at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX