For fans of All Creatures Great and Small, the heartwarming sentimental stories of animals, human bonds, and unforgettable moments hold timeless appeal. The series, set in the Yorkshire Dales in the late 1930s, focuses on James Herriot, a young veterinarian recruited by the eccentric Siegfried Farnon to work at Skeldale House. Alongside Siegfried and James are Tristan, Siegfried’s mischievous younger brother, and Mrs. Hall, their nurturing housekeeper.
Inspired by the true stories of a Yorkshire vet, this show very vividly captures the bond between people and their animal companions, weaving together themes of kindness, resilience, and the simple joys of rural life.
Beyond its picturesque setting and touching narrative, All Creatures Great and Small nudges the viewers to delve deeper into such tales.
From heartfelt dramas to lighthearted comedies, there's much content it can draw as a reference because of its relatable charm. This list features seven titles that celebrate animals, relationships, and unexpected adventures.
More shows like All Creatures Great and Small
1) Inside the Mind of a Cat (Netflix)
Inside the Mind of a Cat is a fascinating documentary that explores the behavior, intelligence, and emotional lives of cats. Those who enjoyed All Creatures Great and Small will find the exploration of feline psychology captivating. Like the series, this cuddly documentary emphasizes the depth of human-animal relationships, showing how pets enrich lives.
Featuring experts and footage of cats in action, it highlights the unique ways these animals communicate and connect with their human companions. It's an insightful addition to the world of animal-centered storytelling.
2) Rescued by Ruby (Netflix)
In this touching film, a state trooper partners with a shelter dog, Ruby, to train for an elite K-9 unit. The story captures the bond between a human and a dog, much like the relationships showcased in All Creatures Great and Small.
Ruby’s journey from an abandoned pet to a vital partner echoes the themes of redemption and compassion seen in the series.
With a focus on teamwork, determination, and second chances, this film resonates with those who enjoy tales of connection and growth.
3) Leo (Netflix)
This animated feature tells the story of a school pet lizard named Leo who has been observing students for decades. When he discovers his time is running out, Leo goes on a mission to help the children he’s watched over.
The themes of care and understanding in All Creatures Great and Small are mirrored in Leo’s story as he forms meaningful relationships and learns about life’s fleeting nature.
The film’s creative approach to portraying animal perspectives adds a whimsical touch to its narrative.
4) The Hidden Lives of Pets (Netflix)
From heartwarming animal stories to modern science, there is something appealing about The Hidden Lives of Pets. This unique documentary takes its audiences on a delightful journey to an extraordinary world beyond the abilities, skills, or behaviors of a furry, feathered, and scaly life.
Agility among cats and dogs' memory that never fades: all these leave the audience dumbfounded for the wonders about pets and the impact they produce in human life.
Moreover, the episodes are exciting mixes of education and entertainment, truly a must-watch for animal lovers. All Creatures Great and Small fans will enjoy the modern alternative to the classic series' charm in The Hidden Lives of Pets.
5) Serengeti (Max, Discovery+ Amazon Channel, BBC Earth)
Serengeti gives a breathtaking look into the lives of some of Tanzania's most iconic wildlife as they struggle, triumph, and persevere throughout the year.
The documentary series takes viewers through incredible cinematography and compelling storytelling to follow lions, zebras, cheetahs, baboons, and more as they strive to survive in the wild.
Every episode of the show speaks about more than their survival, that they have to struggle for their family and the interwoven complexities of their group.
For fans of All Creatures Great and Small, there is a deeper edge to Serengeti on the grounds that it illustrates the global themes of attachment and endurance in the animal kingdom.
6) The Durrells (Disney Plus)
The Durrells is a delightful British comedy-drama following Louisa Durrell and her family as they move from Bournemouth to the sunlit Greek island of Corfu in 1935. Based on Gerald Durrell’s autobiographical books, the series captures their struggles with financial challenges and adapting to a simpler, if chaotic, life.
Amid the natural beauty of Corfu, the family finds joy, humor, and adventure in unexpected places, making the series a heartwarming tale of resilience and discovery.
Fans of All Creatures Great and Small will love the nostalgic feel, as well as the shared commonality of bonding through family relationships and a deep love for the natural world in The Durrells.
While the latter delves into veterinary life within Yorkshire, the former explores Corfu's rather eccentric life, with Gerald's budding passion for wildlife at the heart of this show.
7) The Incredible Dr. Pol (Nat Geo)
The Incredible Dr. Pol is a long-running, much-loved reality show about Dutch-American veterinarian Jan Pol and his crew in rural Weidman, Michigan. Ever since the show came out in 2011, it has chronicled Dr. Pol's love for animals with farm calls to routine check-ups, combining some of the sweetest moments of warmth with reality.
All Creatures Great and Small viewers will love Dr. Pol as well because they celebrate the highs and lows of veterinary life.
Moreover, All Creatures Great and Small provides a dramatized view of a 1930s Yorkshire vet, but The Incredible Dr. Pol presents an unfiltered, modern-day take, proving that humans have been inextricably bound to animals forever.
Each of these shows offers a unique lens to view the themes of All Creatures Great and Small. Whether through touching relationships, educational insights, or imaginative adventures, they extend the series’ celebration of animals and human connection.