Liz Fletcher, wife of former Emmerdale star Kelvin Fletcher, experienced a wave of emotion during filming for the fourth series of their popular television programme Fletcher's Family Farm. The heartwarming moment occurred when a veterinary examination confirmed that the family's beloved dog, Ginger, was expecting puppies.
Emotional Discovery During Filming
In scenes set to air on ITV this Sunday morning at 11.30am, Liz Fletcher cradled her pet dog as veterinarian Hugo arrived to conduct an examination. "Here is your patient, not your usual farm animal," Liz explained to the vet. "But it would be good to know, as we are all guessing, and it would be good to know if it is a yes or no."
Liz had noticed several changes in Ginger's behaviour in recent weeks, prompting the veterinary visit. "There have been a few symptoms or signs, and I think she has been behaving differently," she revealed. "Eating a lot, then off her food, then very clingy. I think she is getting wider. She does seem a bit wider."
Veterinary Confirmation Brings Joy
During the examination, vet Hugo scanned Ginger's stomach and made the exciting discovery. "You can see a puppy there," he told Liz, pointing to the ultrasound screen. "That is a cross-section through a puppy. You can see ribs, legs."
Liz let out a gasp of surprise and delight as the vet continued his examination. "Oh my god, I can see it moving," she exclaimed as Hugo revealed there were two distinct puppies visible on either side of the scan.
Speaking after the confirmation, Liz told the vet: "Hugo, I think that is the best news you've ever given me." When Hugo enquired whether this was "better than the cows," referring to their farm animals, Liz responded: "Well, it is a close one, but she is just our baby. Oh my god, you are having pups." She concluded the emotional moment by saying: "Very happy that it is good news."
Fourth Series of Popular Farming Show
The heartwarming dog pregnancy revelation forms part of the opening episode of the fourth series of Fletcher's Family Farm. The synopsis for the new series reveals that Liz and Kelvin Fletcher are making plans to significantly expand their farming operation.
"Liz and Kelvin Fletcher make plans to double the size of their flock and herd, hiring local farmhand Josh to help manage the livestock," the programme description states. Meanwhile, their daughter Marnie is introduced to her new Jacobs sheep as she makes her own plans for the new farming year ahead.
The episode will also feature the Fletcher boys finding time away from farming to swap tractors for motorbikes, and the family finally receiving the green light to start their long-awaited farmhouse rebuild project.
Return to Sunday Morning Television
Fletcher's Family Farm makes its welcome return to ITV screens this Sunday morning at 11.30am. The programme has developed a loyal following since its inception, offering viewers an intimate look at the Fletcher family's transition from television personalities to working farmers in the Peak District.
The show combines the challenges of modern farming with family life, creating a unique blend of agricultural documentary and family entertainment that has resonated with audiences across the United Kingdom.