With this in mind we asked our readers to share pictures of their dogs, with many of them explaining what it has meant for them to have such a companion. Katie Burnett from Hastings said her dog had 'helped us to discover beautiful family walks we never even knew were so close by'. Many others said their dogs helped them keep fit and active and a reason to get out of the house.

29.
Lisa Henderson sent in this picture of her rescue dogs from London, Romania and Cyprus

30.
Lauren Thompson shared this photo of Mac

31.
Thank you to Lisa Lapwing for this picture
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