For more than a decade, British TV presenter Paul O’Grady has been captivating audiences across the UK with his show “For The Love Of Dogs.” The programme has become a beloved fixture on British television, offering a heartwarming look at the work of the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home and the dogs that come through its doors. For fans of the show, there’s nothing quite like the emotional connection they feel to the dogs and the people who care for them. And in recent episodes, viewers have been brought to tears by the moving stories that O’Grady and his team have shared. From tales of tragedy to heartwarming rescues, “For The Love Of Dogs” continues to touch the hearts of its fans, reminding them of the power of compassion and the importance of animal welfare.
The return of Paul O’Grady to TV screens for the final series of For The Love Of Dogs has moved fans to tears. The late comedian, who died last month at the age of 67, filmed the last season of the show late last year. A well-known dog lover, Paul had already given a home to Chihuahua-Jack Russell cross Eddie, Shih Tzu Boycie, Maltese Conchita, mongrels Arfur and Nancy, and a dachshund called Sausage from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, the venue where the series is filmed.
In his documentary series, which has been running since 2012, Paul visited animals at the home to find out about their backgrounds. In the episode broadcast on Thursday, Paul met with a gorgeous Newfoundland called Peggy, who needed life-changing surgery on her back legs due to ligament problems.
Paul worked with a team of experts to nurse Peggy through eight weeks of physio, hydrotherapy, and walked her using a harness in preparation for her rehoming. In scenes that moved viewers to tears, Paul was left devastated at having to say goodbye to Peggy once she was healed, emotionally telling her that he didn’t have the room to adopt her.
Elsewhere in the episode, Paul helped a timid Bichon Frisé who had been left terrified by humans after being dumped in the forest. He also met an excitable Labrastaff who had an obsession with water, with Paul all too happy to get the hose out and keep him entertained.
The final series is made up of six 30-minute episodes.
Last month, Paul’s partner Andre Portasio shared that he had passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully.” Portasio said: “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening. We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss. He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion. I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”
During his career, Paul hosted The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date, and Blankety Blank, as well as ITV’s multi-award-winning For The Love Of Dogs. He also hosted ITV celebrity game show, Paul O’Grady’s Saturday Night Line Up.
The emotional scenes of Paul bonding with Peggy and his affectionate personality once again returning to the screen has brought many viewers to tears. One fan stated, “Peggy the Newfoundland, I may have a bit of grit in my eye. This series is gonna be a difficult watch; we’ll sure miss Paul O’Grady, one of the good guys.” Another viewer was also brought to tears, saying, “Still tears in my eyes watching Paul O’Grady but so enjoy the Programme,” while a third added, “Paul O’Grady absolutely crying.”
However, one of Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s staff members has revealed that many of Paul’s scenes “won’t see the light of the day.” Speaking on Thursday’s episode of Lorraine, he explained: “Anyone who knows Paul would acknowledge that probably half of what we filmed was unbroadcastable and will probably never see the light of day.”
For many, For The Love Of Dogs is more than just a television show. It’s a heartwarming and emotional experience that has captured the hearts of millions across the world. Paul O’Grady’s genuine love for animals and unwavering dedication to their well-being is truly inspiring. His passion for rescue dogs has resonated with people from all walks of life, and his ability to bring awareness to the plight of homeless animals is unparalleled. As we watch episode after episode, we are reminded of the incredible bond that exists between humans and animals. For The Love Of Dogs is not just a show about dogs – it’s a testament to the power of love and compassion. So, to all of the Paul O’Grady fans out there, keep cheering on his efforts to make the world a better place for our four-legged friends. And don’t forget to grab some tissues – this show is guaranteed to make you cry tears of joy and love.
