Reality TV star Pete Wicks has opened his heart and home to a new four-legged family member, months after suffering the devastating loss of his cherished dog, Peggy.
An Emotional Introduction to Rodney
The 36-year-old TOWIE favourite took to Instagram to share the news with his followers, posting an adorable photo alongside a deeply personal caption. He introduced four-month-old rescue puppy Rodney, who is now the little brother to Pete's other dog, Eric.
In his post, Pete sincerely thanked Dogs Trust and Dogs Trust West London for facilitating the adoption, using the platform to strongly champion the message of rehoming animals in need.
Honouring a Beloved Memory
The star then addressed the profound grief he has carried since the passing of his dog, Peggy. "Most people know that I lost my Peggy a few months ago and it broke my heart," he wrote candidly. "I haven't really spoken about it and I don't want to… she was irreplaceable."
Pete was keen to clarify that bringing Rodney into his life was not an attempt to fill the void left by Peggy. "Getting another dog isn't about trying to replace who I've lost," he explained. "It's about being able to open my heart, home and provide a safe place and love for another dog who needs it." He signed off with the powerful hashtag #AdoptDontShop.
Outpouring of Support and a Lasting Impact
The update was met with an immediate flood of supportive comments from fans and famous friends alike. Celebrities including JLS's JB Gill, Sam Thompson, Ruth Langsford, and Vicky Pattison all left loving messages for the new pup.
This personal story follows the significant real-world impact of Pete's animal welfare work. His TV series, Pete Wicks: For Dog's Sake, which airs on U and offers a behind-the-scenes look at Britain's biggest dog rehoming charity, has driven a notable surge in support for Dogs Trust.
The organisation reported that the launch of the show's second series prompted a 20% increase in dog adoptions and a 25% boost in donations, with centres also seeing greater footfall.
As a dedicated ambassador, Pete has often spoken about his preference for dogs over people, praising their resilience and unconditional love. He recently reflected at a premiere, stating, "Rescue dogs often have an ability to love despite being treated terribly – that is such an emotional, yet wonderful thing." For Pete Wicks, Rodney's arrival marks a hopeful new chapter built on compassion, legacy, and a lifelong commitment to animal welfare.
