So take time out with your four-legged friend and appreciate the love and value that dogs bring to our daily lives.

It’s also a time to encourage responsible dog ownership and spare a thought for those dogs not as pampered as the ones in our gallery above.

In Australia the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSCPA) keeps statistics on dogs that come into their care.

While sadly a large proportion have to be put down every year these numbers are declining as shown in the chart below:

So if you’re considering welcoming a dog into your home why not check out an animal shelter near you and give a homeless dog a second chance at a happy life.