After her pet dog nearly succumbed to a deadly virus, Carnforth business owner Carol Sedgwick is urging fellow pet owners to be vigilant for symptoms of life-threatening illnesses.

Ms Sedgwick's two-year-old Havanese, Rubie, was an energetic dog, but her demeanour was suddenly replaced by distressing signs including whining and shivering, followed by bloody diarrhoea.

An emergency visit to Bay Vets resulted in a diagnosis of canine parvovirus, a severely contagious acute gastrointestinal illness.

Ms Sedgwick was then told that the next 24 hours would be critical during which Rubie was put on urgent care comprising intravenous medication, antibiotics, pain relief, replacement fluids and round-the-clock observation.

After two days, Rubie was considered out of danger and began the slow journey to recovery.

Ms Sedgwick said: "It was a terrible few days.

"Parvovirus has a fatality rate of 91 per cent, even higher in younger, older and health compromised dogs.

"This is why I’m doing everything to alert fellow dog owners to please, please keep up to date with your dog’s vaccinations- if Rubie hadn’t been vaccinated, she would definitely have died.

"It’s largely spread by faeces, so I’m sure I don’t have to say this, but it’s another reason to always pick up after our dogs."

The event also prompted a word of appreciation from Ms Sedgwick to Bay Vets.

She said: "Rubie, my sons and I owe a huge debt of gratitude to Justina and the team at Bay Vets’ for their amazing care.

"Like most pet owners, I assumed our annual boosters covered this terrible disease, however I’ve learned no vaccination is 100 per cent effective.

"Bay Vets confirm quick action can make the difference between life or death, so contact yours immediately if you spot similar symptoms."

The treatment saved Rubie's life but came with a hefty £800 bill for the intensive treatment and medication.

Zoetis, the company behind Rubie's vaccine, was contacted by Bay Vets and contributed to the costs out of goodwill.

Canine parvovirus is transmitted via direct or indirect contact with contaminated faeces, but dogs can be guarded against it with vaccinations, but none provide full assurance.

Its symptoms feature lethargy, loss of appetite, high fever, vomiting, and bloody diarrhoea.