BEHAVIOUR experts at an animal rescue centre are dealing with a rise in ‘tense, anxious and stressed’ pets from broken relationships.

The Burford Blue Cross is using the skills of several animal therapists after it noticed a surge in the number of pets abandoned by couples who were splitting up.

The so-called pet therapists say dogs and cats in particular become nervous, moody and stressed when a family home breaks down.

They could be more likely to soil the carpet, or become aggressive and go off their food.

The Burford Blue Cross centre, which also runs a bereavement support service offering emotional support to people who have lost their pets, said it has taken in 181 animals in the past year due to relationship break-ups, compared to 125 in the same period in 2005.

Cocker spaniel Archie is one such victim of a broken home.

He arrived at the Burford adoption centre earlier this month after his owner was unable to cope with him following the breakdown of a relationship.

Julie Bedford, head of behaviour at the Blue Cross, said the turbulence, arguments and volatile atmosphere surrounding a break-up could also leave pets with ‘severe behavioural problems’.

She said: “Dogs and cats in particular are incredibly sensitive to the dynamics of family life and if a break-up is volatile it can leave them confused, scared and anxious.”

She added: “They are also affected by any change in routine or may pine for the loss of a member of the family if one of the couple moves out.

“A split could also mean a change in home and having to adjust to life in a rescue kennel – all this disruption can leave an animal distressed.”

According to Ms Bedford, animals showing signs of anxiety may become withdrawn or clingy. She advises ‘shielding animals from arguments’ and ‘relaxing pets through exercise and play time’.

The experts work with the animals to build up their confidence by introducing them to other pets and children.

Small animal manager Alyson Jones added: “Break-ups are hard on everyone involved, but we would urge people not to forget that their pets can pick up on tension and shouting in the home.

“We sometimes see animals badly affected by a relationship split but we always make sure we find them a secure, loving new home where they can rebuild their confidence.”

awilliams@oxfordmail.co.uk More information on how to look after your pets and give them a stable and happy home life follow the Blue Cross link on this page