Paul O'Grady fans in tears as late star meets abused dog with the 'saddest face'

27 April 2023 , 22:00

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Paul O'Grady fans in tears as late star meets abused dog with the 'saddest face'

Paul O'Grady met a host of loveable dogs looking for their forever home in the latest episode of ITV's For the Love of Dogs.

The late star, who died last month aged 67, had filmed a series of the show at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home prior to his death and ITV have aired the final episodes as a tribute to the dog lover.

On Thursday, Paul met Murphy, one of the most frightened dogs the Battersea staff have ever seen.

The spaniel was found abandoned and it became immediately clear he'd been subjected to substantial abuse by his previous owners, which led the dog to be very wary of people.

Determined to help, Paul met with a behaviour expert at the shelter who advised him to try a game to build trust with little Murphy.

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Murphy had been abused and abandoned (ITV/REX/Shutterstock)

Paul transferred dog treats from a cup to a bowl in order to maintain Murphy's attention and was even able to give the spaniel a small stroke.

"Is that not the saddest face you've ever seen?" Paul questioned.

At first, Murphy moved his head away but by the end of the session, Paul was able to pet the dog without him moving away.

"Very small steps but great process," Paul remarked before adding: "If you've ever felt like crying it's now."

For the Love of Dogs viewers were left in tears as one tweeted: "Oh poor Murphy absolutely love how Paul is being though with poor little Murphy, he was truly such a special, caring man."

Paul helped socialise Murphy

"Ah, #fortheloveofdogs #POGDOGS Feels a little sad watching it this evening, but such a lovely programme," another added and a third wrote: "Watching Paul O'Grady #fortheloveofdogs spent the first half crying my eyes out...but all's well that ends well."

Someone else shared: "Oh Murphy, what happened to you so sad, why are people so cruel #POGDOGS #fortheloveofdogs," and another said: "Watching the late #PaulOGrady and #fortheloveofdogs can't believe he's gone."

Luckily, Murphy's story had a happy ending as the loveable doggy increasingly improved his social skills and worked on trusting people.

The spaniel was eventually adopted, much to Paul's delight.

Charlotte McIntyre