Clare Balding has opened up about the emotional challenge of finding a new dog with her wife Alice Arnold, following the loss of their beloved Tibetan terrier Archie in 2020. The BBC presenter, who is fronting Wimbledon coverage this year, admitted the process is 'killing me' as they balance work commitments and a house move.
Search for a new dog after heartbreaking loss
The couple, who recently relocated from Chiswick, west London, to leafy Esher in Surrey, are eager to welcome a new canine companion. Balding told the Times last year that the move was partly to 'have a bit more space and protection from the road so it's a good environment for a dog'. However, she stressed that responsible ownership means waiting for the right time.
Speaking on the Alright, Pet? podcast at the Good Woof festival in summer 2024, the 54-year-old broadcaster explained: 'Here's the thing about responsible dog ownership, I'm going to be away all this summer doing the Olympics and Paralympics, this is not the time to bring a dog into my life, our life.' She added that a major house-building project is underway to create a safer, more spacious home with doors that can be left open.
Advice from a pet bereavement expert
During an episode of her Channel 5 programme Lost Dog, Found Dog, Balding consulted a pet bereavement expert about the right approach after losing a pet. When asked whether owners should get a new pet soon after a loss, she advised: 'It's different for everyone, but the most important thing is, it's what's best for the animal you do get. If you're in a unit that's made up of more than one person, you involve everybody in that decision because it's so so important.'
She warned against trying to replace a lost dog with the same breed or name, saying: 'Please don't because every dog is unique and has its own character.' She also emphasised the need to be emotionally ready before bringing a new dog home.
Wimbledon coverage and personal updates
Balding is currently fronting the BBC's Wimbledon coverage alongside Isa Guha, airing on BBC One, BBC Two, and BBC iPlayer over the next two weeks. Speaking on The One Show, she described her role as 'telling stories around it, and making you care about characters'. She noted that Carlos Alcaraz is sadly absent this year due to injury, but the aim is to 'make you see behind the scenes and understand more what they've been through to get where they're going'.
BBC's Wimbledon coverage began today at 10.30am on BBC Two.
