18 August 2008

The nation's four legged friends are treated more like human members of the family than ever before, new research suggests.

A survey by Petguard.co.uk has revealed that dog owners are more likely to remember their pet's birthdays than other family members'.

Up to 61 per cent of owners could recall the date of their dog's birthday but just 48 per cent remembered the birthdays of human members of the family.

A further 20 per cent revealed that they would put their furry friend before a new relationship and ditch a fledgling love interest if their pet did not like their partner.

James Pickering, managing director of Petguard, stated that the survey revealed how important dogs are to families.

"The UK has some of the world's most fanatical dog-lovers, and in many cases dogs are treated more like members of the family than household pets," he said.

Pampered pets in West Yorkshire can now attend a newly-opened spa which offers pedicures and facials.