PEOPLE are being urged to be on the alert after a killer virus struck down a dog in Droitwich.

The stray dog was found suffering from canine parvo in the town last week by Wychavon District Council's dog warden Pip Singleton.

It was brought in but subsequently died, with post-mortem examination results revealing the dog has contracted the highly contagious disease - a virus which strips the lining of the bowel and can be deadly, particularly for young puppies.

Now Wychavon chiefs are urging owners to make sure their pets' vaccinations are up to date to prevent them falling victim.

The council's environmental protection manager Geoff Carpenter said the local authority had taken precautions but understood through speaking to local vets that there had also been a couple of other cases in the town in the past month.

And Ms Singleton said that while the virus - the symptoms of which include severe diarrhoea and bloody vomiting - was highly contagious, precautions could be taken.

"Pets particularly at risk are those with weak immune systems, so it's vital you make sure your dog's vaccinations are up to date," she added.

"Dog owners can help reduce the risk of the virus spreading by cleaning up their pets own poop so, if it is infected, the germs won't be passed on."

Pet owners are advised to seek advice from their vets immediately if their dog shows any of the symptoms of the virus.

Dog breeder and championship show judge David Payne - of Hawthorn Lane, Newland, near Malvern - said there was cause for concern but most dogs were protected.

"Most people know about the virus and there's a lot of good antibodies in the dog population now," he added.

CANINE PARVO - THE FACTS

The virus first appeared in the late 70s and caused the death of thousands of dogs.

It is transmitted through contact with infected faeces and can be carried by the dog via its feet and hair.

Symptoms include severe diarrhoea - sometimes dark or bloody - vomiting, lack of energy, depression, abdominal pain, dehydration and fever.

It is usually associated with puppies under six months old.

Studies show larger breeds including rottweilers, Dobermans and Labradors, pictured, are more susceptible.

There is no treatment that kills the virus. Treatment is geared towards reducing the effects of the disease such as replacing fluids and controlling vomiting.

Some dogs can die within 24 hours of contracting the disease, even with treatment.