Alison Hammond has hit back at her critics who claim she shouldn’t be hosting For The Love Of Dogs in a brand new interview this week

Alison Hammond has clapped back at online critics who claim she “shouldn’t” be hosting the much-loved For The Love Of Dogs series.

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The 50-year-old  TV presenter, who rose to fame on Big Brother, has fronted the hit ITV show ever since the tragic and sudden death of Paul O’Grady in 2023.

Paul, who was aged 67, died as a result of cardiac arrhythmia and was said to have been smoking a cannabis joint when he passed peacefully at his home (pictured in 2023)
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Paul, a beloved national treasure, passed away at the age of 67 from cardiac arrhythmia. It was later revealed that he had been smoking a cannabis joint at his home when he died peacefully.

Since stepping into the role, Alison has hosted two successful series of the show, which offers viewers an inside look at the incredible work done by staff and volunteers at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home — and, of course, the adorable animals they rescue.

But despite her efforts, Alison has been targeted by cruel trolls and faced repeated calls online for her to be removed from the show.

In a bold new interview with The Guardian, Alison fired back at her critics, making it clear she won’t be intimidated.

“People say Pete Wicks would be better than me at presenting For The Love of Dogs,” she said. “He might be — but I’m the one doing it. Deal with it! I know my worth. Besides, my mum would have been so proud. That’s the reason I do this. She’s my guiding light.”

Speaking to The Guardian , the Birmingham native said: ‘People say Pete Wicks would be better than me at presenting For the Love of Dogs’

The Birmingham-born presenter added that she takes the role seriously and is constantly trying to improve.

“I’ve been doing a job that I adore to the best of my ability, trying to be better than I was yesterday,” she said.

Alison added to the publication that she has been ‘doing a job that I adore to the best of my ability, trying to be better than I was yesterday’

As for the future of the show, ITV has yet to confirm whether Alison will return for a third series, keeping fans guessing as speculation continues to swirl.

Away from the drama, Alison has been enjoying some downtime. Currently on her summer break from This Morning, the star recently melted hearts after sharing a rare romantic snap with her 27-year-old boyfriend, David Putman.

The couple, who have been quietly dating for a while, looked blissfully happy in the sun-soaked photo. Beaming at the camera, Alison and David embraced as they headed off on holiday together, coordinating their outfits for the perfect candid shot.

Alison, wearing a chic blue blouse, matched David’s light blue shirt, while both sported black sunglasses and caps for a relaxed, summery vibe. She captioned the sweet post simply with a string of heart emojis and a heartfelt note:

“Happy holidays to you all. Remember — always choose love.” ❤️

The beloved presenter has also opened up about her personal transformation, revealing to the Daily Mail the secret behind her 11-stone weight loss, even while continuing to co-host The Great British Bake Off.

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Talking about her relationship, Alison admitted that she’s in one of the happiest places of her life right now — confident, focused, and surrounded by love.