The annual photo competition, now celebrating its fifth year, invites pet and animal enthusiasts to share amusing photos and videos of their comical furry companions for a shot at the esteemed title of Comedy Pet Photographer of the Year. Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullam founded the Awards to emphasize the positive and essential impact pets have on our lives and to promote awareness about animal welfare.

As the winner of the top prize, Sarah Haskell receives £500, a camera bag from ThinkTank, and a beautiful custom trophy. She said: "I am utterly thrilled, such great news, that I will have to share with Hector before the announcement (so if word gets out, blame him!)

These Comedy Pet Photo Awards have been a good-natured, friendly competition with comical animal characters that you feel you can somehow relate to, that make you smile, and that you want to know more about.  Delighted that Hector and I have been part of it, and tremendously proud to be a winner.  (Those who know me well will also know that my exact response on being told this fabulous news was more concise and totally unprintable!)."

"Hector is a much-loved member of my extended family and has been my (unwitting, unknowing) Muse for a few years now. He has a kennel club name that sounds more like a what-3-words location; he is much better suited to Hector, and it is much easier to say! He will be 14 (human) years in July, so all his visitors make a great fuss over him - Hector has no idea why, quite clearly, but just loves the attention."

Haskell revealed that she has been carrying a camera in some form since her school days, but only recently discovered that she particularly enjoys pet photography, especially capturing images of dogs. "The interaction with these expressive, clever, often comical characters, when I am doing 'pawtrait' shoots, can only make me (and others, hopefully) smile!"

In addition to the category winners, eight photographs received Highly Commended honors from photographers Sylvia Michel (with two entries recognized), Julie Smith, Atsuyuki Ohshima, Vera Faupel, Luiza Ribeiro, Emma Beardsmore, and competition regular and past winner Kenichi Morinaga.

The judging panel featured TV presenter, writer, conservationist, and animal lover Kate Humble; professional photographer and nature enthusiast Gerrard Gethings and his son Jarvis Gethings; TV vet and animal welfare advocate Emma Milne; and professional pet photographer and former competition winner, Elke Vogelsang. For balance, Barry the Border Terrier also joined the panel.

Michelle Wood, who helps manage the Awards, said: “We’ve had a fantastic competition this year, with so many really good entries from across the globe. And a record number of Junior entries which makes us very happy."

In a complex world, our pets remain a constant source of support, joy, and often great humor. Wood said that we would celebrate them daily if we could. Sharing these brilliant winners and laughing at their antics is the heart of this competition!