*This video is for entertainment and educational purposes only. If your pet is sick, take them to see your local veterinarian for the care they need* (Disclaimer)
An infected uterus in a dog is called a pyometra. Pyometra is very common in the intact dog that has not been spayed.
In this video I cover how a dog gets a pyometra, how your veterinarian will diagnose a pyometra or infected uterus, and how your veterinarian will treat the pyometra.
An infected uterus (pyometra) in a dog usually develops shortly after the dog's heat cycle. The dog's heat cycle or Estrus helps to prepare the uterus for infection. The uterine lining becomes very thick and there is poor protection of the uterus when it comes to preventing infection.
Once the heat cycle is over, the cervix closes, but in some cases the uterus is now an ideal location for any residual bacteria to cause infection. Once the infection starts in the dog's uterus, it can grow out of control. A pyometra can become a very large infection. The pyometra infection will cause the dog to become very sick, and it can be life threatening. As the infection continues to grow, the uterus will continue to fill with more and more pus and bacteria.
The infection will then cause the dog to become lethargic, not want to eat, and sometimes develop of fever. If gone untreated, the dog pyometra is life threatening.
A veterinarian will complete lab work which needs to include a cbc. The cbc will show elevated white blood cell count from the uterine infection in the dog. Imaging like an x-ray (radiography) or ultrasound will also be needed to visualize the infected uterus.
Once the dog pyometra is diagnosed, the vet will put your dog on IV fluids and give antibiotics. Once the dog is stable, the dog will get surgery to remove the infected uterus and ovaries. The pyometra surgery is the same surgery as a spay, but it is more complicated and dangerous, because of all the infection.
*As always guys, this content is for education and entertainment purposes only. Please consult with your local veterinarian for all your pet health needs.