Several cases of a fatal dog disease have been reported in Gants Hill and Newbury Park.
An alert website said there were three confirmed cases of canine parvovirus type two, known as “parvo”, in the IG2 postcode area.
The highly-contagious virus mainly affects dogs and can be spread by contact with faeces.
Symptoms include lethargy, vomiting, fever, and bloody diarrhoea, which can lead to dehydration and other infections and illnesses.
If left untreated, the disease is nearly always fatal, but with proper treatment most dogs survive.
Many owners vaccinate their dogs against parvovirus but boosters are needed for immunity.
The RSPCA advises people who have not vaccinated their pets against the disease to contact a vet.
Anyone receiving benefits or a state pension may be eligible for a reduced vaccination at an RSPCA clinic.
Canine parvovirus is not a risk to humans.
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