I just purchased the Pets at Home Christmas All Kinds of Treats Advent Calendar for Dogs. It was between the £120 Fortnum option or this alternative at £30.

Pets at Home was started by Anthony Preston and opened their first store in Chester, UK, 1991 and what a British success story it has been.

They offer a one stop shop for everything pets from Veterinary services to grooming to bedding, to food and play needs.

I have used the store in Leicester for a few years now and when you can find a member of staff (never anyone around) they are always friendly, knowledgeable and helpful.

I bought a rabbit hutch a couple of years ago for the animal sanctuary and instead of making me build it, they allowed me to have one on display, a massive help.

As an animal welfare activist and volunteer at a sanctuary I don’t like to see the rabbits and guinea pigs in the pens for sale behind the Perspex, can’t be much of a life but I try not to look at them too closely. I would prefer something more organic for the animals before they go to their new homes.

All the food, treats, toys, I have purchased so far I have had no complaints.

I did just order the extra special animal doggie advent calendar at £30 for my pouch and three treats in even the kids are a bit disappointed, feeling sorry for the dog, so far the surprises have been a bit cheesy “made in china” so hoping the presents get a bit better as we go.

I struggled to find it and had to order online to be delivered to the store so probably struggle to buy one anyway, it’s OK more packaging than presents.

Update, the presents didn’t get better and the kids lost interest in opening the doors about day 14 - we couldn’t wait and started early.