PAMPERED pets are set to be treated to a selection of romantic gifts this weekend as a new study revealed more pet owners than ever are buying Valentine’s presents for cats and dogs.

Wood Street-based pet boutique Bella Jo-Jo’s has offered a special Valentine’s Day gift where perfect pooches who come in for grooming don a heart decorated collar and pose for a romantic card which is then given to their love-struck owners.

The shop was the brainchild of co-owners Fruit Archer and Melanie Alderton. The animal loving pair, have 12 dogs between them, came together from the unusual backgrounds of aerospace and motors to form the new business,

Melanie, who revealed her three bulldogs will enjoy a fancy fillet steak meal on Sunday, said Swindon pet owners are treating their pets in the run-up to the Valentine’s period.

“We’ve had such a positive response to this, it makes owners really happy that they have a Valentine’s gift from their pets. It’s something that’s fun and different.

Fruit said she wasn’t surprised that pet owners were feeling the love towards feline friends and canine companions.

“We’ve had lots of pet owners coming in and asking for special Valentines gifts for their pets. They love the jumpers and the collars

“The role of a pet has completely changed over the years. Now you can get any accessories you want and they really have become a treasured part of the family. People want to show their appreciation towards their pets and show them how much they love them. We’re seeing that in the run-up to Valentine’s Day.”

Bella Jo Jos, which opened in October sells everything from dazzling dog collars, bulldog cushions, vitamin enriched raw foods, diamante cat collars.

They also have a spa offering conditioning treatments, nail trimming, microchipping and blow dries to ensure pampered pooches look their best.

Pug-Chihuahua cross Georgina was one of many dashing dogs receiving an extended pamper session in the shop to ensure she looked her best on Valentine’s Day.

Research from Co-Operative Insurance found 12 percent of dog and cat owners will buy a Valentine’s gift for their furry friends, with 19 percent of those spending the same amount on their pet as their partner. The average Valentine’s gift cost £23 with the most popular gift being a special meal.