Reality star Pete Wicks has left fans in tears after an emotional new episode of his hit UKTV series For Dogs’ Sake, in which he meets a terminally ill dog left homeless after years of neglect.
The former The Only Way Is Essex personality, 36, was seen breaking down outside the Dogs Trust centre, where the series is filmed, after learning that an Italian Mastiff named Theo had been diagnosed with a life-limiting heart condition.
“I’ve Completely Fallen in Love with That Dog”
In deeply moving scenes, Pete cuddles and plays with Theo before receiving heartbreaking news from the vet — the young, affectionate dog has dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and arrhythmia, both serious heart conditions that mean he is unlikely to live more than 12 months.
Theo arrived at the rescue centre severely underweight after suffering malnutrition in his previous home, yet despite everything, he remains gentle, loving, and full of life.
Holding back tears, Pete told cameras:
“I’m just heartbroken — such a beautiful dog, he’s got so much soul and personality. He should be in a home.”
The vet gently added:
“It’s going to take a very special person to take on that burden, knowing it won’t be for a long time.”
Pete replied softly:
“I just wish there was something I could do. You know when you just feel helpless? I’ve completely fallen in love with that dog… it’s broken my heart.”
“If Ever There Was a Dog Who Deserved a Home…”
Speaking about the episode, Pete admitted:
“I absolutely love big, goofy dogs — and I immediately fell for Theo. His backstory broke my heart. Rehoming big dogs is hard enough, but with the cost-of-living crisis and medical costs, it’s even harder.”
He continued:
“If ever there was a dog who deserved a home for whatever time he’s got left, it’s Theo. No dog should be in kennels.”
The episode, airing tonight on UKTV’s U, will show whether Pete and his team manage to find Theo a family willing to love him through his final year.
“Cancer Hits Close to Home”
This isn’t the first time the series has brought Pete to tears. Earlier this year, the reality star struggled to hold back his emotions when another rescue dog, Murphy, was diagnosed with cancer.
The heartbreaking moment struck a personal chord for Pete, who shared that the news resurfaced “painful memories” of his own family’s battle with testicular cancer, as well as his own health scare.
“Cancer hits close to home for me — whether it’s humans or dogs, it’s horrendous,” he said. “That one really got to me.”
“Dogs Make Me Feel Safe”
Pete revealed that For Dogs’ Sake had been a dream project six years in the making before finally being commissioned by UKTV.
“Dogs have always been a massive part of my life. I prefer dogs to people — they make me feel safe and happy. They don’t want anything from you except love and trust, and that’s a beautiful thing.”
The show follows Pete as he works alongside rescue teams to rehome neglected, abused, and vulnerable dogs — each episode highlighting the emotional highs and heartbreaking lows of the animal rescue world.
“You see so many neglect cases, but what I love is showing that a bit of love can change everything. The transformation when a dog realises they’re safe — that’s what it’s all about.”
A Tearful Mission of Love
As For Dogs’ Sake continues, Pete hopes the show will remind viewers that behind every rescue animal is a story of heartbreak — and hope.
“The important thing is giving them that second chance,” he said. “It’s about finding the right home, the right love — and giving them the life they should have had all along.”
For Dogs’ Sake airs Monday nights on UKTV’s U channel.
Source: DailyMail.co.uk
