Any animal lover knows that the bond between pet and owner is sacred. But sometimes that special relationship strays from cute and appealing to more uncomfortable territory - as these photos show. The classic snaps feature in a new book aptly titled Awkward Family Pet Photos. Out on 27 October, it's by turn a hilarious and worrying testimony to the cherished companionship shared by people with their pets - and the lengths some of us will go to highlight this (matching sweaters, anyone?). Enjoy and prepare to be slightly disturbed, as we bring you a few preview gems from the book, below - complete with cheesy smiles and obligatory eighties hairdos...
Awkward family pet photos
It's a Christmas dream come true for this sexy santa and her pink-frocked companion.
Awkward family pet photos
Two become three as the monkey forms the heart of this touching family shot.
Awkward family pet photos
One man and his chicken. Need we say more?
Awkward family pet photos
You can never have enough rabbits, as this earnest-looking trio can attest.
Awkward family pet photos
Din dins for baby and the dog.
Awkward family pet photos
The adults might be happy but this cat is probably cringing inside (his face says it all).
Awkward family pet photos
It's a thrilling space adventure for man, wife and the family pooch.
Awkward family pet photos
If this woman had any more monkeys we swear she'd morph into one.
Awkward family pet photos
Ah. Just like the Athena poster - except really not...
Awkward family pet photos
Is it just us, or does this baby look ever so slightly terrified of her giant companion?
Awkward family pet photos
Everyone say cheese.
Awkward family pet photos
Why just own dalamations when you can dress up as them too? Fun times.
Awkward family pet photos
Spot the odd one out.
Awkward family pet photos
A classic "we'll use it to humiliate you at your wedding 20 years on" shot.
Awkward family pet photos
Floyd didn't want to hurt their feelings - but he really would have preferred this season's Mulberry dog mac.
Awkward family pet photos
Now who's calling the shots, eh?
Awkward family pet photos
No wonder the poor dog looks nervous. We would do with Duracell bunny breathing down our necks.
Awkward family pet photos
One sofa, a hedgehog and a hat. Poignant.
Awkward family pet photos
Just another average snap for the album...
Awkward family pet photos
And the book that started it all...
See more cringeworthy animal shots in Awkward Family Pet Photos, out on 27 October.
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