The animal minicabs are aimed at time-poor owners who cannot take their pets to the vet or for older people who may not have transport.

They will be provided by Animals At Home South Coast, a business which has just moved into Eastbourne. The firm also provides animal ambulances and walkers, and host homes for dogs.

Katy Magola, co-owner of the franchised business, said, "When I heard the idea of animal taxis I was fascinated. Everybody I have spoken to finds it really interesting, it is so unique.

"We do transportation jobs around the country, for example last week we took a dog to a breeder in Norwich.

"We could take animals to the airport or if someone wanted them transported to Germany or France we would take them over by ferry."

She describes herself as an animal person and said the business was tailored towards different pets.

Cats like routine and stability so the business offers to feed them at home while owners are away.

Dogs can stay with 'foster families' who are vetted by the company and spend lots of time giving them the fuss, attention and walks they need.
For more information, call 07886 644649 or visit the group's website at http://animalsathome.co.uk/southcoast/index.php