Passionate Vetcare’s Dr Kellie Anset said her clinic had not seen any cases this year, but after the virus struck once, the number of dogs afflicted with the illness tended to swell.

In addition to ensuring dogs and puppies were up-to-date with their vaccinations, Dr Anset said owners should avoid taking even fully vaccinated dogs into areas where cases of parvovirus had been confirmed.

She stressed that it was a “horrible” illness for dogs to suffer.

It was also costly to treat, she said, often around the $1000 mark, and even with treatment many dogs did not survive.

Parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract, damaging the linings of the intestinal tract and bone marrow, and destroys white blood cells, leaving them more vulnerable to other illnesses.

The virus is most commonly spread through dog faeces, but it can be transmitted by contaminated footwear, clothing, bedding, food and water bowls, and toys.

UPDATE 10.45am: A Bendigo vet says he is yet to see any cases of the dangerous parvovirus this season, but advises pet owners to take precautions.

Dr Max Tori, from Bendigo Animal Hospital, said warm weather and rain led to greater prevalence of the serious illness.

More people and their dogs were out and about, Dr Tori said, and people tended to turn over soil as the weather warmed up.

He said the virus could live in the soil for five years or more.

Dr Tori said vaccination was the only reliable way to prevent a dog falling ill with the virus.

He said puppies, with their more vulnerable immune systems, were particularly at risk, and should not be taken out until they had finished their vaccination schedule.

Last season was the worst the vet clinic had seen, Dr Tori said, with 14 cases.

EARLIER: Cases of the often-fatal canine parvovirus have been confirmed in central Victoria, including Maryborough, prompting a reminder to dog owners to keep an eye out for symptoms and ensure their pets’ vaccinations are up-to-date.

Even with vet treatment, many dogs still die from the illness.

The illness can affect dogs of any age, although puppies are more susceptible and more likely to die from it.

Symptoms can include tiredness and fatigue, dehydration, lack of appetite, vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in faeces, vomiting and pain.

Dogs can be infected for two weeks without showing any signs of the disease.

If a dog is not fully vaccinated, they should be kept at home and away from other dogs.

A vet should be contacted to organise vaccination: puppies can be vaccinated from six weeks of age, and dogs should be vaccinated at least yearly.

If a person comes into contact with other dogs, they should wash their hands before approaching their own dog, but keep in mind that the virus can be spread by shoes coming into contact with contaminated ground.

Parvovirus can survive in the environment for several months.

If a dog shows symptoms of parvovirus, it should be taken to the vet, although it is important to call ahead and advise that the illness is suspected as quarantine arrangements will need to be put in place to protect other animals.