They offer comfort and love in return for food, warmth, cuddles and games.
When we asked owners to post photos of their pets and tell us why they’re the best, touching stories flooded our Facebook site.
13. Pet pose
Robert Stevens posts: "Barney loves to doss and he loves to pose for the camera." Photo: Robert Stevens
14. Dog tired!
Sam Bannister writes: "This is Ty not a bad bone in him. He treats me like his pup, washes me constantly." Photo: Sam Bannister
15. Peek a boo!
Rebecca Johnson writes: "Gerri is the love of my life, she's always there for me when I'm ill." Photo: Rebecca Johnson
16. Friendly fella
Nikki Tucker writes: "My boy Tucker is the best because he loves absolutely everyone he’s meets. He loves nothing more than having cuddles and kisses. He especially loves getting on his chair at night and stretching out." Photo: Nikki Taylor