In a heartwarming twist that’s capturing the nation’s attention, Pete Wicks has officially returned to screens with the third series of his acclaimed show Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake, which premiered on January 5, 2026, on the U&W channel. The former The Only Way Is Essex (TOWIE) star and Strictly Come Dancing semi-finalist is once again immersing himself in the emotional world of dog rescue, working closely with the dedicated team at Dogs Trust in Basildon.

What started as a passion project in 2025 has quickly evolved into one of the most beloved factual programmes on British television. Viewers first met Pete as he volunteered at the rehoming centre, helping to rescue, rehabilitate, and find forever homes for abandoned and vulnerable dogs. His genuine empathy, calm demeanor, and deep love for animals shone through, drawing comparisons to the late, legendary Paul O’Grady, whose iconic For the Love of Dogs series touched millions with its blend of humour, compassion, and real-life stories of hope.

Fans and critics alike have dubbed Pete the “worthy successor” to Paul O’Grady. Many point to his authentic reactions—often tearing up during emotional moments—as evidence of the same heartfelt connection to the animals that made O’Grady’s presenting style so unforgettable. One viewer described the show as the closest thing to O’Grady’s magic since his passing, praising Pete for not making the series about himself but letting the dogs and the Dogs Trust staff take centre stage.

The impact of the programme has been profound. Since its debut, For Dogs’ Sake has reportedly contributed to a significant surge in adoption applications and donations to Dogs Trust. The first series alone sparked a 30% increase in interest, and the momentum has continued through series two, a Christmas special, and now into this eagerly awaited third run. Episodes feature touching tales, from rescuing six Chihuahuas from a hoarding situation to witnessing the handover of a pregnant pug and her sister—moments that highlight the tireless work behind every rehoming success.

Pete, who has long been vocal about dogs being central to his life (he’s even authored a book on French Bulldogs), spent years trying to get this project commissioned. He has described the experience as life-changing, admitting to crying multiple times during filming due to the raw emotions involved. His journey from reality TV personality facing personal challenges—including turning around significant debt—to a compassionate presenter has resonated deeply with audiences seeking feel-good, meaningful television.

As series three unfolds, viewers can expect more uplifting stories of rescue and redemption, all streamed on U from launch day. With its high IMDb rating and glowing reviews calling for more episodes, Pete Wicks has not only found a new career path but also proved that genuine kindness and a love for animals can win over even the toughest critics.

In an era of scripted drama, Pete Wicks: For Dogs’ Sake reminds us why shows celebrating second chances—both for dogs and the people who help them—remain so powerful. Pete may never fully replace Paul O’Grady, but he’s carving out his own legacy, one wagging tail at a time.