More than 25 dogs were vaccinated at the testing and vaccine station in Port Macquarie on February 13.

Parvovirus is a highly contagious virus affecting dogs and is spread by direct or indirect contact with their faeces.

Infected dogs can experience severe vomiting, blood in the stools, loss of weight and appetite. It is particularly fatal in unvaccinated puppies.

RSPCA Port Macquarie branch secretary Suzanne Stringer said the free vaccination program is designed to stop an outbreak of the virus following the death of a number of puppies.

"There has been cases from this area where puppies have died and the virus is very virulent, often it's fatal," she said.

"We want to try and stop the outbreak and we had a great response today. There has been a constant line of pets brought in for the vaccination.

"We have a temperature check before vaccinating them. If their temperature is high then we can check with a Parvo kit.

"We are trying to hit this area hard today and see what feedback we get.

"Parvo is random and pops up all over the place. There is an outbreak in Kempsey, Wauchope and a big outbreak in Taree at the moment."

Local veterinarians and RSPCA staff donated their time to operate the testing van at the corner of Central and Hindman Roads.

Port Macquarie dog owner Louise Cutler has three dogs and brought them to the vaccination site on February 13.

"I've got dogs right smack in the middle of the area and I thought I'd bring them in because I'd rather be safe than sorry," she said.

"Parvo is so contagious. I haven't seen it myself but I've heard of it.

"There's a lot of dogs in town and I think it's awesome that the RSPCA is organising this, especially for no cost. It's a real community sentiment."

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Port Macquarie News. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, SIGN UP HERE.

If you value local journalism, continue to support us and consider taking out a subscription. CLICK HERE for a 30-day free trial.