TV host Matt Johnson on grief after losing pug Alan Shearer

Matt Johnson, a 43-year-old TV presenter and mental health advocate from Caerphilly, spoke to BBC Radio Wales about the death of his pug, Alan Shearer, named after the former England footballer. He described the loss as "unique and profound," comparing it to grieving a human. Johnson, who has depression, said the dog gave him purpose and a "dopamine injection numerous times a day." The pug was originally owned by his former housemate Paul Darling, a Newcastle United fan, who gave Alan to Johnson five or six years ago. Johnson now encourages others to grieve pet loss, stating it is "as significant as human loss."