The series will once again take to the over 150-year-old Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, a UK charity, where Hammond will help the pets in their care search for a new home. There are currently more abandoned and stray dogs in need than ever.

Across six parts, Hammond will explore the stories of some of Battersea's latest arrivals, while helping the expert staff and volunteers treat and train them to put their best paw forward for their potential new owners.

The late O'Grady was synonymous with the show, having presented all 11 series since it started in 2012 under its former title Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs.

On picking up from where he left off, Hammond says: “I am very aware that I can never replace the iconic Paul in this wonderful series, but if I can continue to shine a light on the brilliant work done at Battersea and help to tell the stories of these beautiful dogs, then it will be an absolute privilege to give it my all.

"I can’t wait to share the joy of their searches for new loving forever homes and hopefully make lots of furry friends of my own along the way!” 

Satmohan Panesar, Commissioning Editor for ITV adds: "As Paul O'Grady always said himself, the stars of the show were the dogs themselves, but the impact that he had and the legacy he leaves will never be forgotten by any of us.

"We can't wait to welcome back the series with Alison; there will be all the fun and warmth that our viewers have come to expect."

For The Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond will air on ITV1 and ITVX.