The Comedy Pet Photo Awards has published 25 comedy pet images that have been shortlisted for its 2023 award.

Among the finalists are a flying poodle, a grumpy cat and a cat preparing to take a free kick.

The competition was created by professional photographers Paul Joynson-Hicks and Tom Sullamto celebrate the positive role that pets have in our lives and encourage engagement around animal welfare.

The shortlisted images will now be judged by a panel of expert animal lovers. The panel includes presenter and conservationist Kate Humble, presenter and comedian Mel Giedroyc, TV veterinary surgeon Emma Milne and professional pet photographer Elke Vogelsang.

Tom Sullam, co-founder of the Comedy Pets, said: “Once again we have been treated to some really funny entries in the competition, and such a wide range of animals this year from ferrets to tortoises to donkeys as well as hundreds of hilarious cats and dogs.

“The job is now on to find the Overall Winner of Comedy Pets 2023 and of course, the People’s Choice Award winner where everyone can get involved.”

To vote for the People’s Choice Award visit its website. The 2023 Comedy Pet Winners will be announced 11 August.

Thumbnail: Flying Poodle (C) John Young/Comedy Pets

Banner: The big Boss (C) Kenichi Morinaga/Comedy Pets