BBC Winterwatch presenter Chris Packham has offered a deeply personal glimpse into his life with his cherished pet dogs, while also revealing the devastating emotional impact of past losses. The naturalist, who was diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome in his forties, spoke candidly about the structured routines that form the cornerstone of his relationship with his canine companions.
The Comfort of Canine Routines
In a recent podcast episode recorded at his New Forest home, Packham detailed the meticulous patterns that define his daily life with his dogs. He explained that both he and his pets thrive on predictability, with specific rituals marking different times of day.
A Patterned Existence
"I like the process of it being... part of my process of going to bed, is sharing the biscuit with them in that routine," Packham told the Homing podcast. "So, those shared routines are very much an integral part of the relationship that I have with them."
The television star described how their evening ritual includes what they call "BT" or "biscuit time" at bedtime, following a six o'clock treat earlier in the evening. He views this entire patterned process as essential for transitioning into a state of relaxation.
Disruption and Devotion
Packham noted that any interruption to these established routines proves particularly unsettling. He emphasized his commitment to maintaining these patterns with striking intensity, stating he would "walk naked over broken glass" to retrieve biscuits if he discovered he had run out.
The Trauma of Loss
Past Tragedies
When questioned about how he copes with the passing of his pets, Packham responded with heartbreaking honesty: "In the past, it's been disastrous." He reflected on his journey from someone who initially showed little interest in domestic animals to becoming profoundly attached to his canine companions.
"I didn't have dogs; (I) was never into domestic animals when I was a kid," he recalled. "(I) wasn't interested. Seriously, rabbits, guinea pigs, dogs, cats, what's the point? They're not interesting. It's all about wild animals."
Mental Health Impact
This perspective changed dramatically when he welcomed his first poodle, Max, who lived to fifteen years old. Packham revealed that subsequent losses triggered severe mental health episodes.
"Every time I lost dogs up until Itchy and Scratchy, it precipitated a significant mental health episode because I hadn't prepared myself," he confessed. The naturalist described these experiences as "catastrophic," particularly when his dog Fish died, leading him to seek therapy and confront suicidal thoughts.
Building Resilience Through Connection
Unbreakable Bonds
Packham has previously spoken about the unique connection he shares with his dogs, telling Radio Times in July 2021 that he bonds with them "more tightly" than with people. He acknowledged that while current dogs Sid and Nancy have found their place in his heart, the absence left by previous companions Itchy and Scratchy remains palpable.
"Though Sid and Nancy have found a new place in my heart, the hole left by Itchy and Scratchy is still there," he admitted. "It's quite hard to talk about."
Moving Forward
Following his most difficult experiences with pet loss, Packham made a conscious decision to continue welcoming dogs into his life while developing better coping strategies. He recognized that he couldn't remain in what he described as that vulnerable "position" again, demonstrating both vulnerability and resilience in his approach to these profound relationships.
The presenter's openness provides rare insight into how structured routines can provide stability for neurodivergent individuals, while also highlighting the deep emotional connections possible between humans and their animal companions.
