What Happens When You Don't Drink Enough Water? 10 Hidden Effects on Your Body

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  1. What happens to your blood when you become dehydrated? Blood contains: Red blood cells. White blood cells. Platelets. Plasma, which is mostly water. Proteins, electrolytes, nutrients and other substances. When the body loses too much water, plasma volume can decrease. This can cause hemoconcentration, meaning some substances in the blood appear more concentrated. Possible effects include: Increased blood viscosity under some circumstances. Reduced circulating blood volume. Increased strain on the cardiovascular system. Reduced blood flow to organs in severe dehydration. This is different from having excessive cholesterol or fatty deposits in arteries. NCBI+2 2. Does dehydration increase cholesterol readings? This is where our article can become particularly interesting. A small human study involving 15 healthy participants found that fasting without fluid replacement produced higher measured total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol than fasting with water and sal...
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Canine Parvovirus: A Serious Threat to Puppies

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How it spreads, common symptoms, vaccination and why prompt veterinary care matters

¿Cómo se ven los dientes del perro según su edad?

Canine parvovirus, commonly known as parvo, is a highly contagious viral disease that can cause severe illness and even death in puppies. Young dogs that have not completed their vaccinations are particularly vulnerable. The virus mainly attacks the digestive system and can also weaken the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight infection. Recognising the warning signs early and seeking veterinary care immediately can save a puppy’s life.

1. How Does Canine Parvovirus Spread?

Parvovirus spreads mainly through contact with infected dog faeces. However, puppies do not need to come into direct contact with an infected dog to become ill.

The virus can survive in contaminated environments and spread through:

  • Contaminated soil, floors and outdoor surfaces.

  • Food and water bowls, toys, bedding and other equipment.

  • Shoes, hands and clothing that carry virus particles.

  • Areas visited by infected dogs, including parks and shared outdoor spaces.

Because the virus is highly resistant to environmental conditions, ordinary household cleaning products may not eliminate it effectively. Contaminated areas require appropriate cleaning and disinfection.

2. Common Symptoms of Parvovirus

The symptoms may begin with subtle changes in a puppy’s behaviour before progressing rapidly.

Watch for these warning signs:

  • Extreme tiredness: The puppy becomes unusually weak or inactive.

  • Loss of appetite: The puppy refuses food or shows little interest in eating.

  • Vomiting: Repeated vomiting can quickly lead to dehydration.

  • Severe diarrhoea: The stool may be watery, foul-smelling or contain blood.

  • Abdominal discomfort: The puppy may appear uncomfortable or reluctant to move.

  • Dehydration: Dry or sticky gums, weakness and sunken eyes may develop.

  • Fever or low body temperature: Either can occur in seriously ill puppies.

Not every infected puppy will develop bloody diarrhoea, and symptoms alone cannot confirm parvovirus.

Important: If a puppy develops vomiting, diarrhoea or sudden weakness, particularly before completing its vaccinations, contact a veterinarian immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to become severe.

3. Why Is Parvovirus So Dangerous?

Parvovirus damages the cells lining the intestines, reducing the body’s ability to absorb nutrients and fluids. It can also damage bone marrow and affect the production of white blood cells that help fight infection.

As a result, affected puppies may experience severe fluid loss, electrolyte imbalances, low blood sugar and secondary bacterial infections. Without timely treatment, the condition can become life-threatening.

Very young puppies have limited energy reserves and can deteriorate quickly. Early medical attention is therefore essential.

4. Vaccination: The Best Protection

Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to protect puppies against parvovirus.

Veterinarians commonly begin the puppy vaccination series at around 6–8 weeks of age, followed by additional doses every 2–4 weeks until at least 16 weeks of age. The precise schedule may vary according to the puppy’s circumstances and veterinary recommendations.

A booster is generally given around one year later, with subsequent boosters scheduled according to the veterinarian’s advice and applicable vaccination guidelines.

Until the vaccination series is complete:

  • Avoid dog parks and other areas frequented by unfamiliar dogs.

  • Keep puppies away from dogs of unknown vaccination status.

  • Use clean, controlled environments for socialisation.

  • Follow your veterinarian’s advice on safe outdoor activities.

Puppies may not be fully protected after their first vaccination, so completing the series is important.

5. What Should You Do If You Suspect Parvovirus?

If you suspect your puppy has parvovirus, take these steps immediately:

Step 1: Contact a veterinarian. Explain the symptoms and mention whether the puppy has received its vaccinations. Call ahead before arriving so the clinic can take precautions against spreading the virus.

Step 2: Isolate the puppy. Keep it away from other dogs and prevent contact with shared bowls, bedding and outdoor areas.

Step 3: Do not attempt to treat the illness at home alone. Avoid giving human medicines or forcing food and water, particularly if the puppy is vomiting. Follow the veterinarian’s instructions.

Step 4: Seek professional treatment. Diagnosis may involve a faecal test and other examinations. Treatment often requires fluid and electrolyte replacement, medication to control vomiting, nutritional support and management of secondary infections. Some dogs may also be eligible for specific antibody treatment.

Hospital care is often recommended for seriously ill puppies. Home-based treatment should only be considered under direct veterinary supervision when appropriate.

6. How Can Owners Prevent Infection?

Good hygiene and responsible pet care can reduce the risk of infection.

  • Keep vaccinations up to date.

  • Clean up dog faeces promptly.

  • Use a disinfectant specifically effective against parvovirus, following its label instructions.

  • Wash your hands after handling dogs or cleaning contaminated areas.

  • Clean food bowls, toys and other equipment regularly.

  • Keep unvaccinated puppies away from potentially contaminated environments.

If a dog has been diagnosed with parvovirus, ask your veterinarian how to disinfect your home and when it is safe to introduce other dogs into the environment.

Early Action Can Save Lives

Canine parvovirus is a serious disease, but responsible vaccination, good hygiene and prompt veterinary care can greatly improve a puppy’s chances of recovery.

Every puppy owner should know the warning signs, especially repeated vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and unusual weakness. When these symptoms appear, do not wait to see whether the puppy improves on its own.

Protect your puppy before illness strikes. Complete its vaccinations, practise good hygiene and seek veterinary help at the first sign of trouble.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment.

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