The Houlton Police Department warned local dog owners on Sunday that their pets could be at risk after multiple confirmed cases of parvovirus, a highly contagious canine disease.
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Police warned that the disease can prove fatal to dogs if left untreated or if treatment begins too late.
Puppies are most susceptible, though, police warned; older dogs can also fall victim to the virus if they are not vaccinated against it or have compromised immune systems.
Police urged anyone with dogs experiencing vomiting, extreme lethargy, or diarrhea to quarantine their pets and seek veterinary assistance.
They also urged pet owners to vaccinate their dogs against the disease.
According to the Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine, the disease first emerged in 1976 and can infect coyotes, wolves, and other wild animals, including foxes, raccoons, and skunks, as well as dogs.
