ITV For the Love of Dogs fans blast Alison Hammond for being 'scared' to stroke dogs as several 'switch off'

She explained prior to the series: "As time went on, I realised how much actually goes into having a dog and to be a responsible owner is to recognise your own circumstances and see that maybe this isn't the time to have a dog.

"However, you know, there's always the future. I like the ones who are not perfect because I'm not perfect myself. I have an affinity for the dogs where there's something wrong with them or they might be a bit chubby or they've got one eye or one leg.

"I used to watch For the Love of Dogs when Paul O’Grady did it. He was incredible and I absolutely fell in love with all the stories and always wanted to know what was going to happen to the dogs."

During last night's episode, many claimed Hammond was acting unaffectionate towards the dogs which caused another uproar on social media.

Taking to their X accounts, one penned: "I like Alison but there’s no way she should be on for the love of dogs, reading off a script, scared to even stroke the dogs! Gone from being a loving program to something I can’t even watch any more!"

"Alison Hammond frightened to touch the dogs sorry cannot watch it switched off," a second added before a third said: "Alison is totally not suited. Hardly touches dogs. She has no intention of breaking one of those ridiculous nails"

"Our Alison doesn’t like dogs why is she hosting this show LOL #ForTheLoveOfDogs," another exclaimed before a fifth wrote: "Alison is so uneducated when it comes to animals, absolutely terrible presenter #ForTheLoveOfDogs."

Some viewers claimed she had "no heart in it", whilst some asked: "Programme just lacking something. Why can’t the staff star in it or have different presenters each week ? #ForTheLoveOfDogs".

Not all viewers were unhappy with Hammond, as one praised: "Not sure what the fuss is all about. She is a woman who needed a job and was keen to step into the spotlight of a friend. Leave her alone."

Another agreed: "People moaning that Alison isn't a dog person need to leave off. I think she's doing an amazing job and I'll continue to watch with her at the helm." (sic)

O'Grady began working on the show in September 2012, adopting two dogs - Nancy and Sausage - along the way, before completing his family with another three.

When he died, it was revealed that he had set aside £125,000 in his will to ensure each of his pups were all taken care of in the future.

Before starting on the show, Hammond opened up as to why she had decided to accept the offer of hosting the series and told The Sun: "I've got to pay my mortgage."

Hammond's arrival on For the Love of Dogs isn't the only backlash she has been receiving of late after she landed Alison Hammond’s Big Weekend on the BBC, which will see the presenter spend 48 hours with a celebrity.

LATEST DEVELOPMENT

• Eurovision organisers embroiled in row as it makes stance clear on act's pro-Palestine symbol: 'Disgusted'
• Grease fans left distraught as star Susan Buckner dies aged 72 and tributes pour in for former actress
• Ireland's Eurovision act Bambie Thug sparks fury with 'satanic' and 'sick' routine as singer makes history

Whilst the This Morning presenter was thrilled for the opportunity, many were furious that she would be fronting another series and aired their frustrations on their social media.

The synopsis for the upcoming series reads: “In this six-part series coming next year, each episode will see Alison spend 48 hours with a celebrity where she will really get to know them.

"The show will be serving up big laughs, big revelations and a whole load of celebrity realness.

"Set to be filmed across the UK, Alison will be asking all the big questions in her unique and hilarious way which has made the This Morning and Great British Bake Off star one of the country’s most loved personalities.”