Image copyright @CI_Style Image caption Bella enjoys a cat nap in the sunshine in Epping, Essex

As the UK continues to bask in the hot weather, it's not just people who are enjoying catching some rays.

From dogs leaping in fields to cats soaking up the sun on loungers, animals are making the most of what is set to be the hottest day in April in decades.

Image copyright Jennifer Pimlow Image caption Jennifer Pimlow's dog, Frank, has certainly got a boost from the sun

Image copyright West Midland Safari Image caption When dry leaves are simply not enough to quench your thirst

Image copyright Marwell Zoo Image caption What are you looking at?

Image copyright Kate Beveridge Image caption Loki has found a good spot in Hassocks, West Sussex

Image copyright Zoological Society of London/PA Wire Image caption This squirrel monkey is not sure what to make of its ice lolly

Image copyright @RosieGamgeeWard Image caption Six-year-old rescue dog Rosie Gamgee suns herself in County Durham

Image copyright Woburn Safari Park Image caption Siberian tiger siblings Mishka and Milashki take a dip to cool off at Woburn Safari Park in Bedfordshire

Image copyright BCH Police Dogs Image caption Harley from the Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Police Dog Unit cools down on his lunch break