IT is the kind of scheme that could see dogs howling with approval.

That's because Bolton is one of a handful of pilot towns chosen for Britain's first pet-sitting service using the internet.

PetSitterSwap.com is a website service starting on Saturday that will put owners in touch with others who live nearby.

The idea is that owners will be able to go on holiday knowing their cats, dogs and other pets will be left in good hands.

Owners would arrange for the person they have contacted to call in and tend their pets.

If the Bolton scheme is a success, it will be introduced in other areas.

The service was given a trial in Sheffield a couple of weeks ago with limited success, so the project is being rolled out across Greater Manchester by its organisers.

Founder and pet lover Shelley Havord said: "We chose Bolton because it seems a very friendly and welcoming town.

"Dogs and cats will love the service because it means no more stays in kennels or catteries when their owners are away."

No fees are paid for any pet minding session and pet sitting agencies are not involved. The service can also be used for weekends away or nights out.

When a member registers, pet sitters make initial contact through the website and arrange to meet.

Shelley believes the service can also bring security benefits to people's homes.

"Members who visit each other's homes to let out the cat or feed the fish will also open or draw the curtains," she said.

"This will give an impression of a house that's lived in, rather than one where the owners are clearly away on holiday."