It’s no secret that if you own animals, your furry or feathered friends usually feel more like an extended member of the family than simply just a pet.

So we decided to celebrate those brilliant pets by inviting our readers to send in their favourite photos of their beloved companions.

Charlotte Ramsdale, from Holmer Green, has owned her gorgeous Labrador Lily for eight years.

She said of the canine: “Lily is intuitive and gentle. She’s my running companion and a hilarious family member.”

Meanwhile, Boris and Inca the cats are loved by their owners Leon and Judy Page from Radnage - it is the regular “gifts” the felines leave them that makes them so endearing!

Alison Lawrence sent in a lovely photo of her and her pet wiggy called Olive. She has owned her for a year and a half, adding: “She loves a cuddle.”

Ted the Cocker Spaniel, who is pictured snoozing here on the right, is owned by Rob Healy from Princes Risborough.

He has been a member of the family for an incredible 11 years.

A dog after our own hearts here at the Bucks Free Press, Ted loves reading the paper.

Lucy-Jane May has also sent a shout-out to her beloved Boxer dog Becky-boo, their first ever dog who was welcomed into the fold nine and a half years ago.

Lucy-Jane said: “Our first ever dog and the most loveable one you could find. She makes life enjoyable everyday!”

Benson the Kokoni was also given a shout-out for being the “best boy” by his owner Joe Canvin from Wendover.

The “loving, laughable character” Lulu the Labrador was also praised by her owner Simon Copeman, from Ibstone, who has owned her for seven years.

The impact pets can have on our wellbeing should never be underestimated - and Nicola Kelly from High Wycombe says her pooch Pandora is always there for her when she needs her.

Nicola has owned Pandora, a Chihuahua, for seven years.

Moving away from dogs and Ginny Cheeseman, from High Wycombe, shared details of Barney the rainbow bearded dragon, proving that you don’t need to have fur to be a loving pet.

She said: “He is a wonderful pet, he wanders around my workshop, he’s cute, quiet and always makes me smile.”