Matt Baker has reflected on a memorable moment when Queen Elizabeth exhibited a heartfelt curiosity about a personal aspect of his life - his bond with his Blue Peter dog, Meg.
The 48-year-old former Countryfile presenter opened up about his interactions with the Royal Family, highlighting their shared love of animals. During a visit to the Blue Peter studio, Baker recounted how the Queen’s attention naturally gravitated towards the animals featured on the show.
“When the late Majesty came into the Blue Peter studio, I had Meg with me,” he explained. “She made a beeline for the Blue Peter pets and was keen to know about their lives beyond the cameras. She was particularly fascinated to hear that Meg was my dog and that she came home with me, rather than going to a handler.”
READ MORE: Rise in Gout Cases Highlights Potential Benefits of Cherry Juice
Baker also reflected on conversations with King Charles, noting how discussions about farming, sheep, and animals form a unique bond. “Sharing a passion for animals is almost like speaking a different language,” he remarked.
Joining Baker in this conversation was presenter Clare Balding, who offered insights into how animals reveal a candid reflection of a person’s true nature. “Dogs and horses reflect the best or worst of us,” Balding observed. “They don’t recognise status like King or Queen, but they respond honestly to how you treat them. If you’re patient, kind, and respectful, they’ll want to be around you.”
Matt agreed, emphasising that animals give immediate feedback based solely on how they are treated.
The discussion also shone a light on Baker’s latest project, “Matt Baker’s Petcast,” a podcast where he invites well-known guests to his caravan to share stories about their pets and the special roles they play. Guests so far include Clare Balding, Bill Bailey, and David and Frankie Seaman. Baker highlighted the charm of the podcast as it reveals a different, more personal side of his guests through their stories about animals.
This venture comes after a difficult period for Baker, following the loss of his beloved border collie, Bob. In May, he shared the sad news, describing Bob as “a brilliant dog” who had been by his side through many important life moments, from raising his children to life on the family farm.
Through these experiences, Baker’s deep connection with animals and the empathetic responses they inspire both in himself and others remain evident.