YOUNGSTERS in Irvine will get the change to get to grips with some little furry friends this week.

Parents are being invited to take their children to a series of fun, free workshops at Pets at Home in Riverway Retail Park.

Youngsters will be able to get up close and personal with some small, furry friends, as well as learn fun facts and how to care for animals such as hamsters, guinea pigs and rabbits.

The small furries workshops run as part of the My Pet Pals Activity Club at Pets at Home in Irvine.

Pets at Home colleagues, whose training is endorsed by City and Guild, will be on hand between February 8 to 19 to share their knowledge on how to keep such pets happy and healthy.

Store manager, Andrew Fox, explains: “One of our most popular small furry pets, rabbits, are the UK's third most popular pet, making them rewarding pets for adults and older children. They’re highly intelligent, social, interactive and fun pets that are extremely clean and can even be litter trained.

“The free workshop is a chance for the pet lovers of Irvine to engage with our colleagues who will be able to offer tips and advice on pet care for small furries, whilst making the workshop fun and interactive.”

After completing the workshops, each child will receive a certificate and stickers, along with a pet promise card where they make their pledge to look after any pet they have according to the five welfare needs.

To find out more about My Pet Pals Activity Club and to book your place at your nearest workshop, please visit petsathome.com/workshops.