The Ravenside pet store will host the Kids' Holiday Pet Club, a series of free pet workshops for children in July and August.

Described as 'a fun and exciting way to teach children about responsible pet ownership and increase awareness and knowledge of how to look after a variety of popular pets', children will learn about the fun and companionship pet ownership brings, and also about the level of care and dedication required.

Store Manager John Lindsey said: "Our Kids' Holiday Pet Club will give local children the chance to interact with our pets in store and, most importantly, learn how to care for them responsibly in a fun and enjoyable way. It's an ideal activity for the school summer holidays."

There are two types of workshop, 'Furry Friends' and 'Scales and Fins'.

At the 'Furry Friends' workshops children can learn how best to look after a variety of furry animals such as rabbits, guinea pigs, dwarf hamsters, and gerbils.

The 'Scales and Fins' workshops will focus on fish, wildlife and reptiles.

These workshops are particularly suited to asthma sufferers and anyone with allergies to animal hair who may be interested in owning a pet.

Children will also be given a free kids' activity book which includes puzzles and activities as well as two in-store trails.

There's also the chance to win some desirable prizes including £100 worth of Toys 'R' Us vouchers, £100 worth of Halfords' vouchers, and a 32GB Apple iPod.

Throughout the summer holidays children can also take part in 'Picnic Time', an interactive learning session where they can watch the pets being fed their healthy afternoon snacks and learn about their feeding habits.

Picnic Time takes place every weekday afternoon at 4pm, and at 2.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times.

To find out dates/times for the workshops or for further information call (01424) 224644, or visit the website at: www.petsathome.com