DOG owners are being warned to check their pets for signs of a deadly virus that’s already killed six dogs in Dorset.

Vets say dog lovers should be on high alert following the outbreak of the highly infectious Parvovirus, which causes vomiting and severe diarrhoea.

Animals behind on their vaccinations are particularly at risk from the disease, which can be spread on walks.

Younger and older dogs are also susceptible.

Vet Keith Moore, from Hillside Vets in Corfe Mullen, said: “Of all the diseases we can vaccinate dogs against in the UK, this is probably the most serious.

“It’s highly contagious and not very nice.

“It shows in really severe tummy upsets, coughing up blood, having sickness and also having diarrhoea.”

He last saw cases near Bristol, around seven years ago.

Dogs have died near Dorchester and there are cases in Salisbury, he said.

He added: “They get dehydrated and the toxins infecting the body cause animals to die, particularly puppies and elderly dogs as their immune systems are not as strong.”

The East Dorset dog warden is aware of the problem.

WHITECLIFF OWNERS KNOW THE MESSAGE

Sue Double, from Parkstone, gets 18-month Alfie, pictured above, vaccinated.

“It’s not very nice for dogs at all,” she said. “It’s very important to keep dogs vaccinated.

“Alfie was done at nine weeks old and then he gets a booster every year.”

Dave Roberts, 59, of Poole, was walking Willow and Pippin.

He said: “My wife’s a trustee at Waggy Tails Rescue. They’ve got 17 dogs in the shelter and certainly don’t want it spread around them.

“Most dogs that come in to them aren’t vaccinated.”

Louise Cameron, from Colehill, makes sure Dixie gets his jabs, worm tablets and flea treatment.

“We go on different walks just about every day,” she said. “So he doesn’t get bogged down in the same area. Whether that helps or not I don’t know.”

Sally Batten, who owns Manu, said: “As an owner you have vaccinations to protect both your dog and others around you.

“It’s just about looking after your pet properly.

“It’s just like picking up their mess.”