A female Staffordshire bull terrier was brought in today with a yellow discharge from the vulva. Other symptoms included increased temperature, lethargic and increased thirst. The dog had been on heat (in season) about six weeks previously. These signs are typical of a uterine infection (pyometra) which has started to discharge through an open cervix. If left this infection would poison the dog's entire system (septicaemia). We therefore made the decision to operate and remove the uterus (womb). Prior to doing this we took a blood sample to check the dog's various organ systems and set up intravenous fluids (a drip) to help the dog during the anaesthetic and to flush out any toxins. After the operation the dog was given pain killers and put on a course of antibiotics to ensure that any infection was eradicated.

The uterus full of pus known as a pyometra.

To prevent this it is important to spay (removing ovaries and uterus) your dog as soon as possible. The earliest this can be done is at 6 months of age. It is a myth that the dog should have it's first season before operating. Spaying your dog as early as possible will also reduce the chance of mammary tumours, remove the chance of ovarian cancer, prevent unwanted pregnancy and prevent seasons.