'Consider pets when moving house'

Householders planning to move home should take time to think about their pets and follow a set of simple tips during the house moving process.

Before moving, pets should be given extra attention during packing to help keep them feeling secure.

Animals should be kept away from the action however, as they may become restless or anxious.

On the day of the move, ensuring safe transport is essential, as is keeping temperatures constant and making sure the pet is not likely to suffer from travel sickness.

It is suggested to sit in the car with the pet in advance to allow it to become familiar with the surroundings.

After moving, the pet will need some time to adjust to its new surroundings. Cats will need to be kept inside the house for two to three weeks, while all animals should be fitted with identification or micro chips.

"We all treat our pets like one of the family, so when moving house this shouldn't be any different.

"By following these handy tips we hope your beloved animals will have a stress free move too."

Drug developed for depressed dogs

Animal owners who are at the end of their tether because of their pet's separation anxiety could find they are being thrown a lifeline.

Depressed dogs showing signs of anxiety such as incessant scratching at doors or wild and frantic behaviour will soon be able to try a beef-flavoured anti-depressant, manufactured by the makers of human drug Prozac.

Clinical trials have shown that the drug, called Reconcile, significantly reduced the symptoms of separation anxiety, which affects between ten and 20 per cent of dogs.

However, animal psychologist Roger Mugford told the publication that it was better to try to modify an animal's behaviour rather than give it drugs.

"The more skilful you are at behaviour modification, at getting the animal husbandry right - diet, exercise, lifestyle and so on - the less the need for drugs," he said.

Earlier this month, a vet from the drug manufacturer said that the chewable tablet "basically calms the dog and makes it more receptive to the training that's supposed to go along with it".