'Animals' take over.

Byline: By EMMA DAVISON News Reporter

WHEN it comes to animals we're known as a nation of softies.

But recently we've gone one step further with our furry friends by allowing them to romp through our rooms.

You can now choose from a veritable zoo full of creatures that feature in shape or image in every type of homeware.

The wacky world of design pets is not only fashionable, but it also adds a little dash of wit to rooms.

Online homeware company Design My World is a good source for contemporary creature comforts, such as its puppy-shaped table.

Co-founder Dean Hart says there has been a surge in demand for products in animal and pet shapes or images.

He says: "Perhaps their current popularity is also because when times are hard we yearn for things that we associate with love and affection.

"So there's something reassuring about pets and animals taking up residence with us."

This trend is timeless and it's quite easy to capture without risk. Avoid the hassle of muddy paws and offer a home to some virtual dogs.

Curl up by the fire on a wool rug depicting a dog going walkies, pounds 399, Habitat.

There are no problems with obedience with Sultan, the Ibride stool or occasional table, pounds 135, in red or black from Design My World.

Serious animal addicts could gallop into this style by investing in a life-size black plastic horse lamp (pictured) at pounds 2,950.