Comedian Paul O’Grady will have his grieving fans in tears when he returns to screens for a final time to say goodbye to a dog named Peggy who stole his heart.
In the new series on the animal lover, Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs, shot last year, he helps out with Peggy after she has a procedure, The Mirror reported.
The broadcaster, who passed away last month at 67, really wanted to take her home however, there wasn't enough space for her.
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He already adopted a number of dogs from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, where the show is set, including Chihuahua-Jack Russell cross Eddie, Shih Tzu Boycie, Maltese Conchita, mongrels Arfur and Nancy, and a dachshund called Sausage.
Peggy bravely underwent a three-and-a-half hour operation under the knife at the Royal Veterinary College for an issue with her hind legs.
Assisted by Paul and an expert team, Peggy, 2, had two months of physio, hydrotherapy and assisted walks in special supportive brace before she could be adopted.
Unfortunately, in this instance it was not to be with the British star, who stated: “Oh dear, I wish I was ready for you, Peggy, but I am afraid I can’t do it this time, there is just no room at the inn.
“Peggy, it’s been a real privilege meeting you, it’s not every day you get to meet a special dog like you. You are very beautiful. It’s been lovely knowing you, take it easy, Peggy.”
Upon his departure, she starts crying, causing him to get upset too. He said: “Don’t start, Peggy please. I’m going to get a job on the railways. It’s too hard to say goodbye.”
After she is adopted by others, he added: “She steals the heart of everyone she meets and I am head over heels.”
A fund in recognition of the MBE awardee set up by Battersea has garnered close to £250,000.
Funds will go towards the running of the much-loved charity, which has included in every series of the hit ITV show.
Paul always spoke so fondly of the show, and the home. More than a decade ago, he stated: “Hand on heart. This has been one of the nicest jobs I’ve ever had.
“Battersea is a magical place. People think it’s all doom and gloom but it’s not, it’s such a happy place. I’ve had a ball. It’s such an enriching place to work. I’m coming back. They can’t get rid of me.”
Paul sadly passed away on March 28.
The 11th and final series of Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs starts on Thursday, 8.30pm, on ITV1 and ITVX.
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