Chris Packham has said he would not be alive today if not for his pet dogs, who were the “only reason” he did not take his own life during a mental health crisis.

The naturalist and TV presenter spoke about his deep bond with his two late poodles, Itchy and Scratchy , at New Scientist Live 2025 , where he also discussed his favourite species from across the animal kingdom.

Packham, who has previously opened up about his struggles with depression, told the audience that the thought of leaving them behind pulled him back from the brink during a particularly dark period. New Feature

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He said: “The relationship that I had with Itchy and Scratchy is the only reason that I’m sat here today, because at one point, my mental health deteri

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