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Last Updated: Monday, 4 December 2006, 03:54 GMT
Owners dig deep to pay for pets
Puppy
The census reveals dogs are the most popular pets
Pet owners are digging deep in their pockets to look after their animals, according to a new survey.

The Pet Census by the animal charity Blue Cross reveals Britain's furry friends are costing their owners an average of �231.

Men spend slightly more than women, although females are twice as likely to be the main carer and more inclined to allow pets to sleep in their bedrooms.

The survey of almost 6,000 people found 48% of the UK's population own a pet.

Puppy fat

Londoners are least likely to have a furry friend, with only 22% owning a pet.

The census also reveals that animals in the East Midlands are among the fattest in the UK.

About one fifth of the people surveyed had no idea of the sex of their pet.

Dogs were the most popular pet, with about 50% of owners saying they chose their pet for companionship and love.




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