A WARNING has been issued to dog owners in Flintshire after one has allegedly contracted a potentially deadly and highly contagious virus.

Connah's Quay-based pet shop Creature Comforts issued the warning on its Facebook page after one of its customer's dog is said to have tested positive for canine parvovirus.

The canine had been being walked at Wepre Park, and while it is unknown whether the dog contracted the virus at Wepre Park, the pet shop is urging people to extra vigilant when walking their dogs there.

The dog is believed to have been taken to The Grange Veterinary Hospital in Mold - which declined to comment on the matter when approached by the Leader.

Canine parvovirus is a contagious virus mainly affecting dogs. It is highly contagious and is spread from dog to dog by direct or indirect contact with their faeces.

Vaccines can prevent this infection, but mortality can reach 91 per cent in untreated cases, and treatment often involves veterinary hospitalization.

Some of the signs of parvovirus include lethargy; loss of appetite; abdominal pain and bloating; fever or low body temperature (hypothermia); vomiting; and severe, often bloody, diarrhea.

Persistent vomiting and diarrhea can cause rapid dehydration, and damage to the intestines and immune system can cause septic shock.

Creature Comforts said: "A customer has messaged us today that she has been taking her dog to Wepre Park, and the dog has been tested at the vets today, and the vets have confirmed it has canine parvovirus.

"Please be aware when walking your dogs in Wepre Park, please check that your dogs are up to date on their vaccines just as a precaution."