If there is any sure way to cheer you up and take your mind off the national news agenda for five minutes, it is seeing the cutest puppies, kittens and ponies Northampton has to offer.
Lockdown has presented many people with a lot of spare time on their hands to train a pet and working from home opportunities have made the dream of one day owning a dog or cat a reality.
In August 2020, statistics provided by The Kennel Club revealed a picture of the state-of-the-nation of life in lockdown, as thousands sought canine companionship to get through the isolation and anxiety caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Almost two thirds (63 per cent) of those who bought a puppy during the pandemic believed lockdown was the perfect time to get a puppy – with three quarters also stating their dog was the best thing about lockdown.
Let's take a look through the picture gallery at the cutest new additions to homes across Northampton.
1. Willow
Cass Gee rescued her two-year-old cat called Willow six months ago. She said: "She has been my best friend and I couldn't imagine life without her now, she has helped combat isolation from family and friends and has given me someone to talk to. Adopt, don't shop, if you can." Photo: Cass Gee
2. Daisy
Siobhan Logan's family welcomed 13-month-old Daisy, the cocker spaniel, into their home over the past year and she has made them laugh every day. "We absolutley adore her," Siobhan said. Photo: Siobhan Logan
3. Gopi
Rosie May adopted Gopi, an ex-street dog from Soi Dog Foundation in Thailand, shortly before the first lockdown. She said: "She's just the most loving, precious soul." Gopi is now fit and healthy after spending the past year having treatment for heartworm before she could travel to the UK and is now fit and healthy. Photo: Rosie May
4. Kimchi and Tofu
Kelly Oakey welcomed her two moggies, Kimchi and Tofu, over lockdown to help keep her company when she's feeling unwell with fibromyalgia. "I don't know what I'd do without them," she added. They also have a sibling called Mochi. Photo: Kelly Oakey