WE asked pet lovers in Cumbria what they preferred the most?

What is your favourite species of pet to own?

Are you a dog lover, or a cat person? Maybe you prefer something more exotic like lizards or parrots?

Here are what our readers said were their favourite species to own.

1) Dogs

Man's best friend was able to come out on top. Lifelong companions and loyal to the last, K9s have shown their popularity with over a quarter of adults in the country being dog owners. Across the UK it is thought to be nearly ten million dogs.

Sarah Carway said: "Dogs are the best. Our lad Benny is the light of our lives."

2) Cats

The adorable companions were the clear second choice for pet owners in Cumbria and across the UK. These proud and independent creatures have brought happiness to millions of households across the world and have captured the hearts of the public in Cumbria.

Alan Hopkins said: "For me it's Cats. We have two."

3) Rabbits

The floppy eared friends have been adored by families everywhere, particularly in the Lake District, especially with the legacy of Beatrix Potter's iconic Peter Rabbit character.

Callum Harkin said: "My son loved our rabbit when we bought it for him, now we're a rabbit household. We got three more."

4) Spiders

Taking a step into the more exotic choice of pets is the eight-legged creature which brings joy to some but worry to others. There are over 750 million spiders in Britain alone so there is no shortage to keep as pets.

Darren Myers said: "Spiders are great pets. Lot of people may not agree but there are a lot of fun."

5) Snakes

The scally skinned serpents have proved to be popular among animal lovers with two million being kept as pets in the UK. Like spiders, they may bring terror to some but others consider them faith companions.

Phil Slater said: "Snakes. Love snakes."