ITV Renews For The Love Of Dogs with Alison Hammond for New Series
ITV has officially confirmed the renewal of the beloved documentary series For The Love Of Dogs, with Alison Hammond returning as presenter for a third series. This announcement comes after significant backlash from viewers when Hammond took over from the late Paul O'Grady, who hosted the show from its launch in 2012 until his sudden death in 2023.
Backlash and Response to Hammond's Role
The decision to appoint Alison Hammond, a 51-year-old This Morning star, as the new host was met with criticism from some fans. Viewers expressed concerns online, questioning her suitability and suggesting she lacked empathy for the dogs, particularly because she does not own a pet. Hammond addressed this backlash directly in interviews, defending her position.
She told Heat magazine, "I was actually surprised with how much trolling I got for doing the show. People were saying, 'How can she do it when she doesn't have a dog? How can she love dogs when she doesn't have one?' It's like saying, 'How can you love children when you haven't got kids?' It's such a flawed argument for me."
In a separate interview with The Guardian, Hammond fired back at critics, stating, "People say Pete Wicks would be better than me at presenting For the Love of Dogs. He might be, but I'm doing it. Deal with it! I know my worth. Besides, my mum would have been so proud. That's the reason I do this. She's my guiding light."
Details of the Upcoming Series
The new series is set to premiere this spring on ITV, continuing the heartwarming and inspirational stories from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. Hammond will immerse herself in the daily operations of the rescue centre, featuring a range of dogs from energetic puppies needing training to older dogs seeking calm homes.
Alison Hammond expressed her excitement about the return, saying, "I'm absolutely over the moon to be heading back to Battersea. My heart was truly stolen by the brave pups I met last time, and I've been itching to get back, roll up my sleeves, and help these gorgeous animals find the love they deserve. There's a special kind of magic in seeing a dog's tail wag for the first time after a tough start, and I can't wait to share that with everyone at home."
Support from ITV and Battersea
Kate Teckman, Head of Development & Commissioning Editor for Factual Entertainment at ITV, commented, "We're delighted that Alison is back at Battersea to bring viewers the moving and entertaining stories of the dogs getting back on their feet, getting their confidence back, and getting ready for a new home."
Peter Laurie, Battersea Chief Executive, added, "Battersea is excited to welcome another series of For the Love of Dogs to TV screens this Spring, where Alison will once again be sharing the heart-felt stories of some of the dogs that have come into our care recently. Guaranteed not to be a dry-eye in the house, viewers will follow the journey of dogs of all ages, shape and size to find a home to call their own."
Legacy of Paul O'Grady and Show's History
The award-winning series first aired in 2012, following the staff and animals at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. It gained a loyal following under the hosting of Paul O'Grady, a much-loved comedian and broadcaster, until his passing in 2023. His death left big shoes to fill, contributing to the initial negative reception of Hammond's takeover.
Despite the controversy, Hammond has emphasized her commitment to the role, stating she has been "doing a job that I adore to the best of my ability, trying to be better than I was yesterday." The renewal indicates ITV's confidence in her as presenter, aiming to continue the show's success with fresh stories and emotional moments.
