Sunday (October 4) marks World Animal Day across the globe; a whole day dedicated to taking care of, protecting and loving animals - however big or small!

Celebrate the day by giving your pet some extra love, taking them out for a walk or to a dog-friendly pub, or donating to your local animal charity.

According to the World Animal Day website, the aim of the event is: "To raise the status of animals in order to improve welfare standards around the globe.

"Building the celebration of World Animal Day unites the animal welfare movement, mobilising it into a global force to make the world a better place for all animals. It's celebrated in different ways in every country, irrespective of nationality, religion, faith or political ideology.

"Through increased awareness and education we can create a world where animals are always recognised as sentient beings and full regard is always paid to their welfare."

Online editor Amy with her dog, Sammy

So if you love animals and have a dog, cat, tortoise, hamster or any other critter you'd love to see in a special gallery, send us your photos and we'll include them in a World Animal Day article! Alternatively, we'd love to see photos of your amazing animal encounters.

Do you have an adorable pet or stunning wildlife photo we need to see? Send your snaps to emily.chudy@trinitymirror.com or Tweet @getwestlondonem.