Alison Hammond has been announced as the new host of ITV’s award winning series, For the Love of Dogs.
She will fill the spot famously held by veteran presenter, the late Paul O’Grady, who died last spring.
The series will now continue with Ms Hammond heading to the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to help the animals in their care look for a new place to live.
“With more abandoned and stray dogs in need of care than ever, the six-part series will tell the stories of some of the latest arrivals at Battersea, as Alison rolls up her sleeves and helps Battersea’s expert staff and volunteers to take care of the animals and get them ready for their potential new owners,” a press release from ITV said.
For the Love of Dogs was fronted by Mr O’Grady from its debut in 2012 until his passing in 2023 from sudden cardiac arrhythmia.
The show won two consecutive National Television Awards in the UK for 'Most Popular Factual Entertainment Programme' in 2013 and 2014. It won again in 2019, beating Gogglebox which had won the previous four consecutive years.
Ms Hammond said: "I am very aware that I can never replace the iconic Paul in this wonderful series, but if I can continue to shine a light on the brilliant work done at Battersea and help to tell the stories of these beautiful dogs, then it will be an absolute privilege to give it my all.
“I can’t wait to share the joy of their searches for new loving forever homes and hopefully make lots of furry friends of my own along the way!”
Satmohan Panesar, Commissioning Editor for ITV said: "We are thrilled to be able to confirm that the series will return in the spring and that the dogs have a brand-new champion in Alison Hammond."
“As Paul O'Grady always said himself, the stars of the show were the dogs themselves, but the impact that he had and the legacy he leaves will never be forgotten by any of us.
“We can't wait to welcome back the series with Alison; there will be all the fun and warmth that our viewers have come to expect whilst continuing to showcase the wonderful and important work done by the incredible team at Battersea.”
Peter Laurie, Battersea Chief Executive said: "Everyone at Battersea is excited to embark upon a brand-new series of For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond."
“Over the last twelve years, For the Love of Dogs has shared with viewers the love and expert care Battersea dedicates to all the animals that need our help.
“Alongside our beloved Ambassador, the late, great Paul O’Grady, we've enjoyed showing how much joy rescue animals can give, and we’re pleased we can continue to shine a light on the work our charity undertakes every day to improve the lives of dogs and cats.”
