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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WWLP) – More than 100 people brought their dogs to the Second Chance Community Vet Hospital in Springfield Saturday to get their dogs protected from the deadly viral disease, “parvo.”

The Parvovirus causes a dog to get sick very quickly with symptoms including vomiting and diarrhea. A puppy can die within 48 hours, after the onset of symptoms.

“We wanted to protect her from Parvo and so that she’s a healthy puppy,” dog owner Samara Guess told 22News.

It’s important to make sure you’re getting your puppy vaccinated every three to four weeks, up until 20 weeks of age. You should also follow up with a booster a year later.

Second Chance Saturday was all about protecting dogs in Springfield from the parvovirus. They said getting vaccinated is the only way to ensure your dog remains parvo-free.

“Without treatment and sometimes even with treatment they can die very quickly,” veterinarian Jennifer Johnson explained. “But the good news is it’s almost 100 percent preventable with the vaccination. So for $5, you can keep little guys like this nice and safe.”

Dr. Johnson told 22News, if your dog hasn’t completed the series of parvo vaccinations yet, you should avoid taking your dog to public places where the virus could be present, like a dog park.

The virus can live in the ground for up to a year and it’s resistant to weather changes, and most cleaning products. You could also put your dog at risk if you walk into your home after stepping on infected feces.