Matt Baker’s brand new podcast celebrating the special relationship between people and their pets has officially launched, with comedian, presenter and author Bill Bailey joining him for the first episode.
In episode 1 of Matt Baker’s Petcast, produced in collaboration with Radio Times, Baker brings the Petcast caravan to Goodwoof, the popular dog show held at the Goodwood Estate in West Sussex.
Bailey arrives with Chocho, a six-month-old rescue Japanese Chin who was originally found as a companion for his 93-year-old father.
The pair sit down for a relaxed and frequently surprising conversation exploring how animals have shaped Bailey’s life, from the dogs he knew growing up to the extraordinary collection of creatures he has cared for as an adult.
Bailey recalls childhood pets and family memories, as well as his time living on a houseboat with Rocky, a terrier he describes as a “latchkey” dog.
Rocky was given the freedom to roam and even became an unexpected part of Bailey’s comedy career, wandering onstage during some of his gigs…
The Strictly Come Dancing champion also explains how the home he shares with his wife Kris gradually developed into a rescue-led menagerie.
Over the years, the couple have cared for cats, cockatoos, rabbits – including Flemish Giants – tortoises, lizards, koi carp and a variety of exotic birds.
Their work with animals eventually led to the property becoming officially registered as Britain’s smallest zoo.
Bailey also reveals that he and Kris bred three-banded armadillos and contributed welfare observations to a European database, helping to expand knowledge of how the animals should be cared for.
The conversation also turns to Bailey’s wildlife artwork and the influence of his mother, who helped inspire his lifelong passion for nature.
Meanwhile, the comedian discusses the important part animals have played in his own wellbeing, including how looking after pet fish encouraged moments of calm and self-care during his time competing on Strictly Come Dancing.
Alongside entertaining and nostalgic stories, Matt Baker’s Petcast will explore the responsibilities and realities of modern pet ownership, as well as the comfort, companionship and routine that animals can bring.
Baker is best known for presenting Countryfile, The One Show and Blue Peter, programmes that have frequently allowed him to explore his love of the countryside, farming and wildlife.
The new podcast sees him continue that passion through intimate conversations about the bonds between pets and their owners.
Episode 1 of Matt Baker’s Petcast, featuring Bill Bailey and Chocho, is available now on major podcast platforms and on YouTube.
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This episode is sponsored by Harringtons.
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