Paralympic champion and television presenter Ellie Simmonds has revealed she is applying to foster a dog, following her role as host of this year's Crufts. The 31-year-old, who presented Channel 4's coverage of the world's largest dog show at Birmingham's NEC, told the Mirror that she has submitted an application to foster through Dogs Trust.
Simmonds, who won five Paralympic gold medals and 14 world titles before retiring in 2021, explained that fostering offers flexibility and a chance to give back. 'I love the idea of giving back to dogs who are looking forward to a long term home,' she said. Dogs Trust reported that 3,625 dogs were fostered in 2024, but more foster carers are needed in 2026 to meet demand.
The charity provides support and behaviourists to ensure a good match. Simmonds, who has achondroplasia, said her father's allergies prevented her from having a dog growing up, despite a household full of other animals. 'I so wanted one. Now it's time!' she added.
Since retiring from swimming, Simmonds has focused on charity work and appeared on Strictly Come Dancing in 2022. Her documentary Finding My Secret Family won a BAFTA in 2023, and her 2025 film Should I Have Children? explored disability and genetic testing.
