Television presenter Eamonn Holmes has shared a touching Instagram update featuring his 17-year-old rescue dog Maggie, whilst acknowledging his former spouse Ruth Langsford’s continued dedication to the pet’s care.
The Peoples’ Channel broadcaster posted photographs of himself with the Border Collie cross, revealing that despite his wheelchair limitations, Langsford handles the demanding aspects of looking after their elderly canine companion.
“Ruth does all the hard stuff with her because of my Wheelchair restrictions,” Holmes wrote in the social media post, which generated significant public interest.
The 65-year-old presenter expressed optimism about his recovery, stating he was “working hard to hopefully get better soon” with aspirations to welcome another rescue animal into his life.
The beloved pet, who recently celebrated her 17th birthday, has captured widespread attention following Holmes’ Sunday social media update that prompted an outpouring of supportive messages from followers.
In his Instagram caption, the broadcaster drew parallels between Maggie and his late mother, noting they share similar ailments including mobility issues and dental problems, though he affectionately added “not bad for a 17 year old!”
The Border Collie cross has been a constant presence in Holmes’ life since 2011, when the couple adopted her from Dogs Trust.
Sources have described the rescue animal as being treated “like a daughter” by the former couple, who regularly featured her on ITV’s This Morning during their tenure as presenters.
Holmes has previously credited the pet with transforming his perspective, stating that rescuing Maggie fundamentally altered how he views all animals.
Following their separation in May 2024, Langsford maintains primary care of Maggie at their previous shared home in Surrey, whilst Holmes receives visitation rights with the cherished pet.
The presenter’s Instagram post encouraged followers to consider animal adoption through organisations such as The K9 Angels and Dogs Trust, rather than purchasing from breeders.
He also issued seasonal advice about protecting pets during warm weather, cautioning owners about leaving dogs in vehicles and walking them on heated surfaces.
The social media update revealed that Maggie’s story will feature in The Times online and the Sunday Times, reflecting the public’s enduring fascination with the elderly rescue dog.
Holmes expressed gratitude for the overwhelming response to his previous post about Maggie, describing how the Border Collie continues to bring him happiness during sunny days.
The former couple welcomed Maggie into their household fourteen years ago when they adopted the Border Collie cross from Dogs Trust, establishing her as a central figure in their family dynamic.
During an episode of his podcast Things We Like with Eamonn & Paul, Holmes reflected on the profound impact of the adoption, telling guest Glenn Hoddle: “Changed my life, mate. Changed my life 17 years ago. A rescue dog changed it.”
He emphasised the unique bond between rescued animals and their owners, adding: “A dog wouldn’t give any other thing on earth the love that it gives you for rescuing it.”
Prior to Sunday’s update, Holmes had last shared news about Maggie in January, when he posted footage of the affectionate Border Collie tenderly licking his ear whilst he sang The Beatles’ All You Need Is Love.