Hard-pressed pet owners “cutting corners” on their animal’s vaccinations are behind a huge rise in fatal diseases, according to a leading veterinary chain.

Myerscough Vets, which has practices in North-West England, is running a ‘vaccine amnesty’ throughout March in a bid to reduce the likes of Parvo virus, distemper, viral cat flu and feline leukaemia.

Owners who haven’t vaccinated their pets for over 18 months will qualify for reduced-price boosters.

Claire Batty, head vet at Myerscough Vets, said: “Over the past 18 months we have seen a 70% upsurge in many preventable diseases such as Parvo and Feline Leukaemia, which have a high fatality rate.

“This has led to local outbreaks and the loss of beloved pets, so we want to offer something that is affordable for owners who have let the yearly vaccinations lapse.

“People are cutting corners with vaccinations. They will get their dog vaccinated as a puppy, and then not follow it up. It’s complete short-sightedness and leads to a lot of heartache and expense when animals become ill.”

It is estimated that only 62% of the UK dog population and 49% of the UK cat population are vaccinated.

Parvo virus is a contagious virus mainly affecting dogs, with symptoms including mucus or blood in faeces, tiredness and loss of appetite.