Viewers were moved as ITV Good Morning Britain host Robert Rinder was left in tears as he spoke about pets being abandoned at Christmas. The host, who is being replaced on GMB later this week by Gordon Smart, was talking to co host Charlotte Hawkins and guest Chris Packham about the issue.
Robert was left distraught by the loss of his dog Rocco earlier this month, and is clearly an animal lover. In the report, newsreader Marverine Cole responded to the two rescue dogs Fidget and Theo who were featured, saying: “If I had room, I’d take them in.”
It has been revealed that because of the cost of living crisis many more animals are being abandoned and rescue centres are full. But as Charlotte turned to Rob, he quietly said: “I'm not sure I could have another one,” referring to his own heartbreaking loss just a short time ago. Speaking at the time he said: “He blessed me with a lifetime of loyalty & limitless joy,” the MEN reports.
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“Was Fidget calling out to you?” asked Charlotte, referencing a clip of rescue dogs on the show. “A little bit,” Celebrity Gogglebox star Rob replied. Charlotte said: “It’s hard isn’t it if you had a much loved one to then replace.”
Rob agreed and said: “I didn’t really want a dog. Eventually you get a pet and it becomes exactly as you describe. It becomes exactly how you describe as they become part of your family. They’re irreplaceable.”
Naturalist and wildlife TV presenter Chris Packham spoke about the news from the RSPCA that all of its rescue centres are already full or at bursting point, as well as his new BBC show, Dogs in the Wild: Meet the Family.
Rob asked Chris: “What would your message be to anyone thinking about adopting a dog or buying a dog? I’ve just lost a dog and I didn’t realise how crushing it would be...”
Chris said that it was about finding the ‘courage’ to take on another companion animal. “It would never be a replacement but it would give you a very welcome distraction and ultimately, you will fall in love with that animal as well.”
As Chris finished and the cameras returned to the studio, Rob’s eyes appeared to be filled with tears and he admitted; “Thank you Chris... you made me cry!”
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