PET owners are being warned to be vigilant after a highly contagious virus killed a puppy bought to a Reading vets.

The dog was one of three taken to Castle Vets suffering with canine parvovirus.

Clair Espley, registered veterinary nurse at the Tilehurst Road vets, said: “It’s quite a nasty little disease. It particularly effects puppies because they are still developing an immune system.

"If their mum hasn't been vaccinated they are more at risk, but even some times if they have been vaccinated there's a drop off between the maternal antibodies and the vaccination.

"Any aged dog can get it but older dogs are much more likely to survive, they have a stronger immune system.

"One puppy sadly died. We couldn't' save her despite her owner bringing her in as soon as they could."

"It's highly contagious and survives in the environment for up to a year. It's really hard to destroy. You have to use a special disinfectant.”

She said it can take up to 10 days for symptoms to come forward and advised anyone looking to buy a puppy to use reputable breeders.

Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, refusal to eat, fever, diarrhoea that can contain blood.

One dog was given a plasma transfusion as the vets battled to save its life.

They normally see two cases a year but have seen three in quick succession prompting a warning to dog-owners.

The puppies were too young to use dog parks but their owners could have spread the virus as they walked around the town.

Ms Espley advised people only buy dogs form reputable breeders. Prospective owners should ask to see the puppies feeding from mother with litter mates and check her vaccination record.

A dog’s annual vaccinations will prevent it from catching the virus.

After recovering an infected dog can still pass on the infection for up to three weeks.

The other two puppies treated in Reading are recovering well but have been quarantined until they are no longer contagious.