Animal-loving kids are encouraged to capture photos of their favourite pets and great British wildlife this summer, as PDSA launches its 2015 photo competition.

Running with the theme ‘amazing animals’ youngsters are being asked to submit their own photos to one of three age categories: under 10s, 10-13 or 14-16-year-olds.

From awesome ants and daring dogs, to cosy cats, huggable hamsters and delightful donkeys, PDSA wants to see the best snaps of the animal kingdom.

The competition is free to enter – each child’s best photo should be emailed to petprotectors@pdsa.org.uk with ‘Pet Photo Competition 2015’ in the subject, along with their full name and date of birth in the email. The closing date is 11 September 2015.Kids who are already members of PDSA’s kids’ club – Pet Protectors – should also include their membership number to receive their points.

The winner of each age category will receive an Action Video Camera with underwater case and a copy of the 2016 calendar, which is made up of the best 12 photos submitted to the competition. The overall winner across all categories will also receive a behind-the-scenes tour of one of PDSA’s Pet Hospitals, and a professional photo shoot with their pet.

Last year’s competition was won by eight-year-old Evie Connors, who said: “I was overwhelmed and proud that my photo of Millie made it onto the front of PDSA’s Christmas card!”

Evie has shared her top tips for snapping the best photos:

• Always have your camera nearby so you can catch your pet being funny or cute
• Practise using your camera so you know what it can do
• Make sure the light is good
• Take loads of pictures so you can choose the best one

PDSA’s Education Officer Jenna Small said: “We’re looking for incredible photos of all creatures great and small, so if your pet loves posing or you’re planning a visit to a safari park this summer, remember to keep your camera handy!

“Remember though, not to dress your pets up, it may look funny to us but it can make them nervous and uncomfortable. Why not capture them showing off a skill or playing ball with their best friend instead?”

For more information, plus terms and conditions, visit www.pdsa.org.uk/photocomp