Gemma Atkinson, a former Hollyoaks actress and Strictly Come Dancing star, was frightened after her beloved four-legged family member underwent an emergency procedure.
Former Hollyoaks star Gemma Atkinson has shared her horror as her beloved puppy rushed into emergency surgery
She revealed how she had to rush back from London after her new puppy Benji was taken in for an emergency operation. The radio presenter had been working when she received a call no dog owner wants to hear: “We need to operate.”
Vets had to rush in the case that her Goldendoodle pup had swallowed a dummy treat, which caused a serious blockage in his intestine. Gemma, 39, left everything behind and made her way home.
She revealed the frightened Benji had eaten a dummy teat, which had blocked his intestine, to her fans on Instagram.
Scary, but apparently very common for puppies to consume obscene things. He’s at home, getting plenty of rest, and even getting cuddles. When I heard the phrase “we need to operate,” I left London early to head home.
She continued, “Thank you to Claire and the @WomensHealthuk team for your understanding. She wrote, “I know it wasn’t ideal, but I had to get home,” followed by two red heart emojis. Then Gemma said, “You worry yourself sick when they get sick. Thank you for your excellent care and compassion for Ramsbottom, as well as for Medivets’.
Although puppies are known for chewing on anything in sight, these kinds of accidents didn’t help Gemma and her family feel safe.
It’s not the first time she’s dealt with a health scare involving her dogs. In 2024, she and her fiancé, Strictly Come Dancing star Gorka Márquez, sadly lost both of their pets Norman and Ollie – within months of each other.
Norman had been a significant member of their family’s life, despite his ongoing cruciate ligament issues. Gemma also shared the heartbreaking news about Ollie’s passing in December. She captioned her heartbreaking Instagram post, “Sleep well, beautiful Ollie.” the most lovable, affectionate, and compassionate soul. We both knew after Norman that you had to wait a long because you two were inseparable, and I am aware of how much you must have missed him. For 14 years, two dogs have been faithful, loving, and accompanies. How fortunate am I to have had that.
Before Gorka, Mia, and Tio, it was just us, and we spent many a weekend snuggling up next to each other after a long day of exploring. And when our family expanded, you unrestrainedly expressed your affection and devotion to one another.
“I know you’re both running free in long grass or on a beach chasing the tide care free, pain free, and happy, but I know you’re losing you both so close together is a lot. That’s what I’m currently finding comfort in. I’ll keep you in my heart forever. Ollie and Norman. My two favorite boys “Reunited”
Gemma has always been honest about how much her dogs’ deaths have affected her and regularly shared updates with fans.
The Hits Radio presenter is well known for her love of animals and often gives fans a glimpse of life at home with Gorka and their two young children; Mia, five, and Thiago, who turns two next month. Outside of her radio work, Gemma shot to fame as Lisa Hunter on Hollyoaks, before going on to appear in Casualty, Emmerdale, and a standout stint on Strictly Come Dancing in 2017.
She’s also a qualified personal trainer, wellness advocate, and author of The Ultimate Body Plan, where she shares advice on fitness, food, and mindset. Her health and beauty brand Lil’ Gems launched to great success and reflects her passion for holistic wellness. Earlier in her career, Gemma also worked as a lingerie model, but stepped away from that world at 23 to focus on acting, fitness, and eventually broadcasting.
Gemma enjoys life with their growing family, which includes a lively pup who will undoubtedly keep them on their toes, while juggling her career and motherhood.
Source: Mirror
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