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. Niki Rouse wrote: "Been shielding since last February and now suffering long covid and was hospitalised for two weeks in September. These two dogs have been my life line. They have kept me company, kept me entertained and have given me a reason to get up every day. They give you cuddles when needed."

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Steve Tumbles certainly has his hands full with these two

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A lovely picture of Brian sent in by Zoe Saunders

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Sulakshana Mukherjee Das sent in this picture

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Tanya Clubb's dog looks very comfortable
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