A Medway vet has joined calls for owners to vaccinate their pets after two dogs died of parvovirus.

Both Medway Council and easipetcare in Union Street, Chatham, has warned owners to be vigilant after three puppies and an elderly dog were diagnosed with the condition.

Some of the infected animals were found on land near the Civic Centre, Strood Esplanade.

The virus mainly affects puppies aged between six weeks and six months, but dogs which are not vaccinated, or have not had their booster injections, are also at risk.

Infected animals will usually show signs of illness within three to seven days of coming into contact with the virus. The most common symptoms include lethargy, dehydration, severe vomiting and diarrhoea.

Soon after testing positive one of the puppies died, another puppy and an elderly dog had to be put to sleep. The other puppy has made a full recovery.

Sarah Watt, head of practice at easipetcare, said: “It’s a highly contagious disease, passed on by contact with infected dogs or their faeces. The virus can survive outside in parks and walking areas for up to three months and can also be walked into homes on owners’ shoes and clothing.”

She urged people to get their animals vaccinated and contact their vet with any concerns.