It’s not only the goals, passes, and transfer rumours which are making news these days as the premier league starts, it’s also our four-legged companions who are taking the spotlight. A gentle and less intimidating aspect of the game can be seen from these pets, spanning from elite athletes expressing care for their canines to rescued cats prowling around the arena.
Nottingham Forest’s “City Ground Kittens” 🐱
Nottingham Forest had media attention for an off-field evacuation operation before this year. In the city ground stadium, a stray cat mother named Morgan and her kittens were found. The cat was taken care of by the staff members and ground keepers.
In a stroke of charm, the kittens were named after Forest players, and the story spread across social media, sparking adoption inquiries from fans and the wider community. The feel-good rescue not only gave the cats a second chance at life but also highlighted the club’s community spirit.
Dogs have played a significant role in British society over the centuries (see our detailed exploration here)
Brentford’s Pomeranian Pack 🐾
Keane Lewis-Potter, who is a midfielder in Brentford has a Pomeranian named Nova which is a gift from his girlfriend. This started a trend in his team. Following him, his teammates Michael Kayode, Fábio Carvalho, and Yehor Yarmolyuk also welcomed Pomeranians.
These dogs even socialize together and have been a “puppy pack” as they go on the same dog-sitting service. Lewis also credits Nova for helping him relax after the games as she is always there with him no matter what the result is on the field.
(The Times)
Bernardo Silva’s Bulldog Named “John” 🐶
Bernardo Silva, Manchester City player describes a very funny pet story of his. He has a French Bulldog which he named John after his teammate John Stones. This creates a laughter in the team sometimes. Despite this dressing room chuckles, this shows Silva’s love for pets.
Silva praised the dog as “like my little baby”. Having a dog named John was a first for Stones to see and pet with his name, he giggles.
Harry Kane’s Loyal Labradors 🐕
Prior to relocating in another country, England captain Harry Kane was often seen enjoying with his two Labrador Retrievers, i.e. Wilson and Brady. They get their names after two NFL players Tom Brady and Russel Wilson. Kane appeared frequently in social media posts as a part of his family life.
(Wikipedia)
Roy Keane and the Legend of “Triggs” 🐕
The story of pets in the English premier League wouldn’t be whole without discussing Triggs, Roy Keane‘s late Labrador. Keane used to stroll with Triggs after leaving Republic of Ireland’s World cup camp in 2022. This was the moment when Triggs became a media sensation.
Afterwards, Keane stated, “Compared to humans, dogs don’t talk rubbish,” establishing Triggs as the well-known dog in football.
(Wikipedia)
The RSPCA warns that many animals may face significant risks, as detailed in our article, Imported Dogs Trigger Health & Welfare Concerns in the UK, Warns RSPCA.
Daniel Sturridge’s Pomeranian “Lucci” — A Missing Pup Drama 🐕
Daniel Sturridge, former Chelsea and Liverpool striker, has an awful time when his Pomeranian Lucci disappears in a Los Angeles burglary. He even made an emotional plea on social media and announced a prize money for the dog’s return. This shows how much he love his pet and also gained a lot of international attention.
(Wikipedia)
Mauricio Pochettino’s Dog Sansa 🐾
Sansa, a massive Rhodesian Ridgeback owned by former Chelsea Manager Mauricio Pochettino, unknowingly improves fan interaction. Fans were very kind to him when he was escorting Sansa. Pochettino joked, “They are slightly nervous of her – she’s big.“
(The Sun)