Pet lovers are spending 20 per cent more on their heating bills to keep their pets warm while they are at work.

Research from Harrow-based heating expert Rightgas has found their pet owners in Harrow are spending 20 per cent more each year to heat their home for their pets.

A further one in five say that they will turn their heating up if the temperature seems too low for their pets, while some homeowners also spend more on their electricity bills by running the TV and radio for their pampered pets while at work.

But the thermostat is not only ramped up for dogs and cats – more than one in four owners of rabbits, guinea pigs, birds and even goldfish also keep their heating on while they are at work.