Dog owners in Lowell, Massachusetts are being told to keep an eye on their beloved pets after 15 dogs passed away in two weeks due to the highly contagious and potentially fatal parvovirus.

Officials fear the number of infected dogs may rise. 

The said virus spreads through a dog's feces or vomit and can cause death if left untreated. 

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Breeds that are most susceptible to the virus are Rottweilers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Pinschers, Labrador Retrievers, Doberman, and German Shepherds. 

Parvovirus attacks the gastrointestinal tract and lymphatic system, resulting in vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy.

If the said symptoms are observed, Animal Control officers insist that the animal be taken to the vet right away, adding that treating the dog at home will not save it.

Animal Control Officer Darlene Wood shared that people should be aware that dogs who suffer from the virus experience a very painful death. She stated that people shouldn't panic due to the outbreak, but that they need everybody's help to contain the spread of the virus.

What worries Wood the most is that the virus can survive for several months even without a host and, is also resistant to many common disinfectants.

Because of the difficulty of containing the virus, Wood recommends that dog owners bring their own dog bowls when bringing their pets to the park and, making sure that that their pets receive the necessary parvovirus vaccine.

For dogs that are already infected, Wood insists that they be brought to the vet immediately and not be exercised in public areas.

Animal Control is currently partnering with local vets and the Department of Agricultural Resources Division of Animal Health in order to contain the virus and, help dog owners who don't have the money to pay for their pets' vaccination.

TagsDogs, Parvovirus, pets, Massachusetts