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Paul O’grady returns for a new series of For the Love of Dogs this week, and as soon as he arrives at Battersea, the London-based rescue centre for dogs and cats, he’s met by a threemonth-old spaniel cross called Milo.

‘Milo was given up by his owner and he’s covered from head to toe in itchy mites,’ explains Paul. ‘The last 12 months have been a strange old time and there have been quite a few surprises at Battersea, too, particularly the amount of puppies arriving.’

After vet Clare gives Milo medication to rid him of the nasty bugs and his patchy fur begins to grow back, the staff believe that he’ll easily find a new loving home.

However, it might not be so straightforward for 18-monthold Rottweiler Jenny. She was given up when her owner became too ill to look after her, but she’s so terrified of strangers that staff have their work cut out to rebuild her trust.

‘It never ceases to amaze me how well dogs bounce back from tough times. But some, like Jenny, need more help than others,’ says Paul. ‘She’s terrified, poor thing. I think any potential owners will just need to go slow with her.’

Meanwhile, there’s very good news for Milo when the cute pup finds a new home with a family in Surrey.

‘He’s a smashing little fellow and there’s no denying he’s landed on his little paws,’ says Paul. ‘He’s one lucky boy!’

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Battersea, previously known as Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, has looked after over three million animals since it was founded in 1860 and now cares for around 7,000 dogs and cats every year. Visit battersea. org.uk.