THE competition to find the king or queen of the animal kingdom in Swindon is really hotting up with the shortlist for the Adver’s Perfect Pet

We asked readers to send in pictures of their beloved pets and the reaction was staggering.

Hundreds of them answered the call - in fact there were so many we had to close the entries two days early because we were overwhelmed.

More than 300 made it through and were featured in a huge gallery last week.

There were dogs and cats of all shapes and sizes, from tiny chihuahas to Great Danes, and moggies to Bengals. Ferrets, dragons, bunnies and even a snail called Bob beamed out from the pages, hoping for votes from the public.

Now we’re down to the top 10 and animal lovers can pick who is worthy of taking the crown of Swindon’s ‘perfect pet’. Check out the gallery to see whose made it.

Will the winner be Pablo the gorgeous Vizsla, the dreamy-eyed Missy with flowers in her hair, high-flyer Maverick the home-loving goose or noble Conlan with his inquisitive gaze?

On the other hand voters could be inspired by the charms of Billy the kelpie cross, Tilda-Roo the spaniel or maybe the perfect pair of bunnies Barney and Pippin.

Other contestants include handsome felines Teddy and Tigger and last but not least is little dachshund Robin with her big puppy eyes.

Adver editor Daniel Chipperfield said he was thrilled to be helping launch the event.

“People’s love for animals know no bounds and that has shone through in our competition,” he said.

“The bond between people and their pets is a profound one with many of us likely to be at a complete loss if they were not in our lives.

“This was never truer than during the pandemic with our pets proving a source of entertainment and support.

“They might be a pain, or downright naughty, but we love them all the same. Make sure you pick out who you think deserves the extra accolades.”

The winner of the competition will earn a £50 voucher as well featuring in the Swindon Advertiser.

To vote for your favourite among the finalists simply cut out the coupon that you'll find on page 10 of today's paper, fill in the details and send it in to the Adver newsroom at Richmond House, Edison Park in Dorcan to arrive by May 15 at the latest.

There's one vote per coupon and photocopies won't be accepted.

The winning pet will be announced on May 18.