Ref. 71704-39IT may not be How Much is that Doggy in the Window, but it's topping the canine hit parade.

A veterinary hospital in Swindon is selling a CD specially aimed at helping dogs and cats who have phobias about loud noises.

The 40-track album, called Crash, Bang, Wallop, includes such phobic pet classics as "Slamming Door", "Firework" and "Vacuum Cleaner".

The first batch put on sale at the Drove Veterinary Hospital in Croft Road has already sold out an initial batch of 20 copies, but more have been ordered and were expected to arrive today or tomorrow.

The idea might seem off-the-wall, but it has a serious purpose, as some pets can be driven to uncontrollable panic by noises ranging from fireworks to slamming doors. And a panicking pet can act totally out of character, including being prone to bite, scratch or run away.

Drove hospital vet Mieghan Bruce said: "It is becoming more common for animals to be distressed by loud noises."

Owners buying the CD are advised to play it initially at low volume to their pets during non-stressful periods such as feeding or play. It is available from the eight Drove Veterinary Hospitals across the area and costs £12.99.