Alison’s the new presenter of For The Love Of Dogs
Viewers have spent over a decade falling head over heels for the four-legged friends on Paul O’Grady’s award-winning show For The Love Of Dogs, so we were delighted to hear that the hit ITV series will continue with a new host, bubbly Alison Hammond.
Alison will be heading to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to help the animals in their care look for new homes, following the sad passing of much-loved presenter Paul O’Grady in March 2023.
With more abandoned and stray dogs in need of care than ever, the new six-part series will once again bring us the uplifting stories of the latest dogs awaiting much-needed love.
Alison admitted her new role is a privilege.
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 is delighted to reveal Alison as the new host.
“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.”
Battersea Chief Executive, Peter Laurie, is also looking forward to welcoming Alison.
“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.
“We’re looking forward to welcoming Alison to Battersea and introducing her to the incredible animals in our care as we help them on their journey to finding loving, new homes.”
Paul’s Wonderful Legacy
Paul O’Grady with a 11 month old Pointer called Scruff Pic: ITV/Shutterstock
For the late Paul O’Grady, his role at Battersea wasn’t just a job. He was so passionate about the dogs and their stories – even smuggling a few pooches back to his farmhouse in Kent!
When My Weekly interviewed Paul a few years ago, he revealed his feelings on his time at Battersea.
“I’m such a sucker for animals but I have a particular fondness for dogs, as you might have guessed!
“Spending so much time at Battersea really opened my eyes to how many unwanted and neglected dogs there are.
“I get so fond of them, they’re part of the family. ”
Paul will never be forgotten, but as a new series is set to air this spring, we can’t wait for Alison to become part of the Battersea family, too.
Look out for For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond on ITV this spring
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Allison Hay
I joined the "My Weekly" team thirteen years ago and, more recently, "The People's Friend". I love the variety of topics we cover both online and in the magazines. I manage the digital content for the brands, sharing features and information on the website, social media and in our digital newsletters.
