Springwatch's Chris Packham says dogs 'saved my life' during 'dark' time
Chris Packham, 64, has opened up about his mental health battles and how he once 'didn't want to be on this planet any longer', but his beloved pets gave him 'purpose'
Chris Packham has poignantly disclosed that his pets provided him with 'purpose' during his lowest moments, confessing: "My dogs saved my life."
The much-loved wildlife expert is set to grace our screens again on Monday, May 26, with the return of the beloved series Springwatch, where he will co-host with his long-time colleague Michaela Strachan.
Despite his cheerful television presence, the 64-year-old has spoken out about his struggles with mental health and a time when he "didn't want to be on this planet any longer".
In an intimate chat with Country Living, Chris, who rose to fame with the '80s hit show The Really Wild Show, revealed: "My dogs saved my life."
He elaborated: "I've been in some dark places. I was so miserable I didn't want to be on this planet any longer, but my dogs took that choice away. They gave me the gift of purpose - and it's the reason I'm still here," reports Gloucestershire Live.
The devoted animal enthusiast expressed how his connection with his Poodles was so profound that he "couldn't break it".
He remarked: "I used to call my previous dogs 'my joy grenades'. I'd let them off the lead, and they'd run for the sheer joy of running. It didn't matter how miserable I was, that would always put a smile on my face."
Diagnosed with Asperger's Syndrome at the age of 44, Chris notes that individuals on the autism spectrum can often form even stronger bonds with dogs.
"I think it's because we're never judged. We are always accepted by that animal: the bonds are very tight," he explained.
"Dogs offer us unconditional love. They are always pleased to see us. We trust them implicitly. I sleep with my dogs, we eat the same thing. I have an enormous responsibility and duty of care to make sure that my dogs are happy and healthy."
Springwatch is celebrating its 20th year with a brand new segment called Springwatch Street, giving viewers a glimpse into the hidden lives of urban wildlife like foxes and swifts.
Ahead of the new series, Chris spoke about his relationship with co-host Michaela, saying: "We're great friends. We know each other really well, so sometimes we may disagree about something, and the team may look at us and think, 'Oh my goodness, the presenters have fallen out!'
"But we haven't. We don't get upset about those things. We don't have to agree about everything. We just move on. So, the fact that we're great, lifelong, trusted mates helps, but also that we work in very different ways in terms of way that we approach our job."
Springwatch returns to BBC Two from Monday, May 26 at 8pm
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