Good Morning Britain presenter Katy Rickitt has shared an emotional health update about her beloved dog Tallulah, prompting an outpouring of support from fans and fellow pet owners across the UK.
Heartbreaking Health Diagnosis
The ITV news correspondent, who joined the morning show in 2012, took to Instagram this week to reveal that her cherished pet has been suffering from seizures over recent months. Rickitt described the terrifying experience of witnessing Tallulah's fits, explaining that while some could be managed by holding the dog through them, others were "violent and heartbreaking".
After consulting veterinarians, the couple faced the frightening possibility that Tallulah might have a brain tumour. However, further investigation through ultrasound and blood tests revealed a different diagnosis - Toxoplasma, a parasite dogs contract from eating cat faeces or raw meat.
Ongoing Treatment and Challenges
Katy explained that Tallulah is currently completing "a mega course of antibiotics" and is permanently on anti-seizure medication. The medication balance has proven challenging, as higher doses appear to make the dog unable to stand.
The presenter shared that while the seizures had initially stopped with treatment, they have recently returned in a less intense form. Tallulah now experiences episodes where she foams at the mouth and appears disoriented, though without the full-blown fitting previously witnessed.
Without subjecting Tallulah to an MRI scan, the family cannot determine whether the parasite has caused permanent brain damage or if an underlying tumour might also be present.
Emotional Plea to Pet Owners
In her heartfelt social media post, Rickitt described Tallulah as her "soul dog" and expressed her determination to "inhale every moment with her... just in case". The television personality issued a poignant warning to other dog owners, urging them to prevent their pets from eating cat faeces, particularly as older dogs can suffer more severely from the parasite.
She concluded with an emotional message that resonated deeply with her followers: "Cuddle your babies... just in case. Because being a dog mama is just like being any mama... except we know we're going to lose them first."
The update prompted an immediate flood of supportive messages from fans, with many sharing their own experiences with pet health struggles. One follower wrote: "Sending love to you all," while another expressed: "Sending hugs to you both. Their unconditional love is everything."
Katy Rickitt married former Coronation Street actor Adam Rickitt in December 2014 after they first met during a GMB interview in 2011. The couple also run an artisan bottle shop named Dexter and Jones in Knutsford, Cheshire.
