Eamonn Holmes made a light-hearted comment in the past, saying if his wife Ruth Langsford cared for him like she does their rescue dog, Maggie, he would be “a happy man”.

During their lengthy relationship, they often spoke about their connection, which took on a new meaning 14 years ago when they adopted their beloved pet dog from Dogs Trust.

Speaking together in an interview in 2021, Eamonn and Ruth shared their deep love for their “adorable” canine friend, Maggie, who has been a source of comfort in difficult times.

“She’s just adorable,” said an enthusiastic Ruth to The Telegraph, the Mirror reports. “We adore her.

After a long, hard day, coming home to her is the best. When she sees me or Eamonn, her tail starts wagging, then she runs off to fetch a toy from her basket to give us.

“It’s the most heartwarming thing. All your worries, frustrations, and anger just melt away.”

In the same discussion, Eamonn affirmed Ruth’s feelings about their collective affection for Maggie, yet comically stated: “If my wife loved me the way my dog loves me, I’d be a very happy man”, according to the Express.

After adopting Maggie, the duo has kept fans amused with regular updates on social media. It appears Ruth has assumed responsibility for Maggie following their split, going by her recent Instagram posts.

The beloved TV presenter has been delighting her followers with snapshots of her rural walks accompanied by their cherished Collie cross on Instagram, while Eamonn has been conspicuously absent.

An insider revealed to The Sun the potential impact of Eamonn’s health issues on caring for Maggie, stating: “Maggie is like a daughter to them. They dote on her. But she’s getting on and they know she needs stability.

“It’s a case of who can give her that. Eamonn adores her and Maggie’s been such a support during his health woes.”

The source added: “The thought of giving her up is heartbreaking to him. But if Ruth is able to get out and about and walk her more, then it may well be that she gets Maggie in the split.”

The couple, who exchanged vows in 2010, share a 22-year-old son named Jack, and Eamonn has three additional children from a previous marriage, as well as two grandchildren.

Following the media coverage of their split, Eamonn shared his appreciation for the public’s kind words on his GB News show, saying: “Just before we move on we’d just like to thank people for your support for Ruth and I over the last few days as to the news of our separation. Your support for both of us is very much appreciated.”

Ruth has remained silent on the matter and is currently taking an extended hiatus from Loose Women.