Dawn O’Porter, the writer and television presenter, has long found solace in the companionship of animals, a connection that deepened following the early loss of her mother. She shares her Richmond, southwest London home with her husband, actor and comedian Chris O’Dowd, their two sons, and a menagerie of rescue animals, including two dogs, two cats, a tortoise, and uniquely, a freeze-dried cat.

O’Porter and O’Dowd’s two dogs, Puffin and Meatloaf, were rescued in Los Angeles in 2022, shortly before the family relocated to the UK. Puffin, a puppy likely mixed with Jack Russell and spaniel breeds, was chosen for their youngest son, Valentine. Meatloaf, rescued from a high-kill shelter where he faced imminent euthanasia, was about nine months old when adopted. Despite initial concerns about his nervous behavior and matted coat, Meatloaf quickly bonded with the family. O’Porter describes his appearance as a mix resembling an Irish wolfhound’s face with a basset hound’s body.

The couple’s cats, Myrtle and Boo, were adopted during a spontaneous visit to a rescue center prompted by a friend’s play date. Myrtle is known for her gentle nature and nightly bedtime companionship with Valentine, though she exhibits a more predatory side outdoors. Recently, Myrtle underwent amputation of her back leg following an aggressive cancer diagnosis but has since resumed her normal activities. Boo displays a persistent affection toward O’Porter, whom she jokingly likens to a hypnotic presence, while Myrtle maintains a more reserved demeanor.

In June 2023, following their return to the UK, the family welcomed a tortoise named Sandwich, who resides under a UV heat lamp in O’Porter’s office. Despite the comparatively low-profile nature of this pet, O’Porter expresses considerable concern for his wellbeing, noting the therapeutic value she finds in observing him.

O’Porter’s connection to animals dates back to her childhood, particularly after her mother’s death just before her seventh birthday. She spent much time with her aunt and uncle, who cared for a variety of animals, and developed an early affinity for their Siamese cats. Her first own pet was a Siamese cat named Lilu, who traveled with her extensively in her twenties and remained deeply cherished. Following Lilu’s passing, O’Porter chose to preserve the cat through freeze-drying—a decision she says is driven by the unique bond they shared. The preserved Lilu remains in her office as a keepsake, despite a humorous incident involving Puffin.

Looking ahead, O’Porter expresses an ongoing openness to expanding their animal family, though O’Dowd is more cautious about space limitations. She dreams of adding unconventional pets such as pigs, goats, or even a cow, reflecting her rural upbringing in Guernsey.

For O’Porter, animals provide an essential emotional anchor. “It’s just an extra heartbeat so you’re never alone,” she said, underscoring the enduring comfort her rescue pets bring to the household.