Black dog days may be over for Kiwi canines

Jack's owner considered antidepressants for him. Photo / Jason Dorday

Kiwi canine experts have called for a new pooch "prozac" to be introduced here to help dogs suffering from depression and anxiety issues.

Reconcile, an antidepressant formulated for dogs, was launched in Britain last week and is due to go on sale in Australia soon.

The powerful drug could combat the mental health problems experts believe affect almost one in seven dogs.

Auckland dog behaviorist Simon Goodall said drugs were commonly used to treat mental health problems among Kiwi canines. The number of dogs diagnosed with depression is not recorded here but Goodall estimated about 17 per cent were sufferers.

"If researched properly it would be a welcome addition to some of the dogs that we work with," he said.

"It may help in bringing down the overall stress of the dog ... so is well worth a go here in New Zealand."

Goodall treats about 10 dogs a week suffering "stress-related issues" and says other treatments include homeopathic remedies.

The pills have also received the 'paws up' from academics.

Professor Kevin Stafford, from Massey University's institute of veterinary, animal and biomedical sciences, said human antidepressant clomipramine had been given to pets here for years.

But a product made for dogs would be "of great value".

"There is always a demand for drugs to treat behaviour problems as it is believed that they make ... human-dog interactions easier."

Dog behaviorist Dan Abdelnoor estimates one in seven New Zealand pooches have mental health problems but agrees with Goodall drugs aren't the only cure.

"Show the dog that you are the pack leader. Once a dog knows that you in charge they will not have the job of looking after you and will happily allow you to come and go as you will.

"Whilst there is not an immediate fix or magic wand to wave, usually within about two weeks the dog will be behaving in a completely different manner. Any sprays, tablets or drugs are treating the symptoms."

Therapy aid to sad Jack

Jack was one unhappy dog.

He barked, whined and howled when owner Harriet Meade was out of sight.

Meade said the Cavalier King Charles spaniel had separation anxiety from the start. His antics were so bad he went to "doggy daycare" when she had visitors

She considered antidepressants but took Jack to behaviourist and trainer Dan Abdelnoor. While Jack was not 100 per cent cured his behaviour had improved.

"I would have considered dog prozac ... at desperation point. My vet didn't recommend it but mentioned a herbal variety. I would look at other options first."