A DOG owner was left "mortified" after her 10-month-old puppy was diagnosed with a highly contagious virus. 

Julie Broomfield, from Bitterne, is urging animal owners to be "vigilant" after her Newfoundland puppy Roscoe was diagnosed with parvovirus.

Roscoe, who had been previously been vaccinated against it, was found to be suffering from the potentially fatal disease earlier this month after experiencing diarrhoea and vomiting. 

He was taken to Pet Vet in Thornhill who prescribed antibiotics and told Julie to keep him indoors until he recovers.

Julie said: "He has recovered now but he still isn't eating well. Before he didn't eat at all and looked very poorly.

"I didn't know he could get still get Parvo after he was vaccinated for it.

"I am glad he isn't as bad as it could have been but it does make me worry watching him like this."

Julie said she now worries that the illness could have a permanent impact on her pet's intestines.

Parvovirus can be fatal to dogs with puppies aged six weeks to six months most at risk.

The virus can be spread through body fluids, including a dog’s poo, pee, and vomit.

It survives for long periods of time even outdoors. 

Although there is no cure, vaccinating a dog or puppy against parvo will offer protection.

Julie said: "Please make sure your dog is vaccinated as this is what probably saved his life."

Alison Thomas, Head of Veterinary Services at national pet charity Blue Cross, said: "Parvovirus is highly infectious and can prove fatal for dogs if not treated swiftly.

"We urge all owners to make sure their pets are vaccinated and that vaccinations are kept up to date to protect their animal from this deadly disease.

"If your puppy or dog is unwell with vomiting and diarrhoea, you should contact your vet for advice as soon as possible."

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