Pet Prozac released for distressed dogs

With the UK release of a dog version of Prozac, pet owners will soon have the opportunity to treat their distressed dog with anti depressants.

Reconcile, a beef flavoured tablet from the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor family, is designed to treat canine compulsive disorders and separation anxiety. According to the Daily Mail, a trial involving 660 mentally-disturbed pets in Europe and the US yielded results and behavioural improvement within eight weeks.

Eli Lilly, the US manufacturers of the drug, have cited research suggesting that as many as eight per cent of dogs suffer from canine compulsive disorder. Because treating pets for anxiety or stress-related disorders can be expensive, pet owners are encouraged to take out pet insurance to protect themselves against large vet bills or unexpected costs.

When the drug was released in the US three years ago, Steve Connell, Eli Lilly's manager of consumer services for companion animal health, claimed that more than 10 million US dogs exhibit strange symptoms from being left alone too long. He said: "Lilly research shows that 10.7million, or up to 17 per cent, of US dogs suffer from separation anxiety.

"We're thrilled that our first product for dogs can help restore the human-pet bond."

Symptoms that could indicate depression or mental health problems in dogs include poor behaviour, whimpering or tail-chasing as well as compulsive pacing, chewing and dribbling.

The UK's Veterinary Medicines Directorate has now granted a license for Reconcile.

The Reconcile website recommends that pet owners consult their vet if they believe their dog is suffering from separation anxiety or depression. The vet can determine whether the dog's symptoms are caused by any other underlying medical factors. Those struggling with the cost of treatment for their pets during the economic downturn are encouraged to compare pet insurance to reduce outgoings.

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 08:01:00 GMT