Concern over rent-a-dog service

Flexpetz is an American concept enabling dog lovers craving canine companionship to borrow a pet at a cost of £279 for once a week for a month.

Gucci, an 18-month-old Pomeranian, has been the first canine recruit to Flexpetz's London operation but more are expected to be available in the future.

According to Flexpetz, checks are carried out on potential part-time owners and visits are made to their homes to satisfy them the dog will be cared for.

The introduction of the service is intended to appeal to people who are too busy or who cannot afford the full-time commitment of looking after a dog.

Pippa Woolard, Flexpetz's UK representative, told the Times: "I like to get to know them before they are accepted and would not allow a dog with anyone who gave me cause for concern."

But concerns have been raised that passing a dog from one home to another could prove distressing to the animal, leaving it with no routine.

A Dogs Trust spokesman said: "We don't agree with the principle of renting or loaning out a pet because an animal, and dogs in particular, have a certain bond with its family.

"To remove it from that environment by putting it out to rent is quite distressing and we would actually say detrimental to the well-being of the dog."

The RSPCA has also registered its disquiet about the scheme, saying that not giving a dog a secure routine could leave it unhappy.