AS part of National Pet Month The Guardian would like to invite all its readers to join in and promote this landmark occasion by sending us your favourite pet pictures - and there's also a £10 voucher up for grabs for the cutest picture to spend at Ammanford Pet Shop.

The campaign, which runs until May 4, has been initiated to help promote responsible pet ownership and encourages pet fans to raise funds for UK charities.

It goes without saying pets provide us with so much love and companionship so we, along with the charitable organisation National Pet Month, think it is time to repay that kindness.

In order to do this, the charity needs your help to make people more aware of the benefits of having pets for people and people for pets, increase public awareness of professionals who work with animals and champion their contribution to society of working animals.

Wondering how you can get involved and be apart of the unique event that brings together animal welfare charities, pet businesses and schools, with the common goal of to improve the welfare of pets?

Well, why not become a supporter of the charity? This will keep you up-to-date with the charity’s activities and you will receive a free events pack.

Or you could organise your own event and raise some much needed cash by visiting nationalpetmonth.org.uk and clicking on the Get Fundraising section.

There are lots of tips on staging an event or attending one of the organised fun days or you can simply follow all the latest news on Facebook.

To kick-start the celebrations, editor Steve, reporters Clare and Lisa and the rest of the gang have given you a sneak preview of their beloved pets just to get you started.

So, if you would like to see a picture of your pet feature in our online gallery or in The Guardian, send in a picture of your pet.

Send your name, address, your pet's name, and age and a picture - you could also include a caption if you wish - to news@southwalesguardian.co.uk, Facebook: South Wales Guardian or Tweet us @swguardian with a picture of your precious pooch, cuddly little cat, slippery snake or even favourite fish and let’s celebrate life with our best-friends, our nation’s beloved pets are counting on you.

Check out our online gallery here: http://bit.ly/1G3hMcN