Canine Pyometra: A Reason to Have Your Dog Spayed

Animal sterilization advocates often highlight a desire to end the overpopulation of unwanted pets when arguing in favor of spaying female dogs. While this is a worthy cause, it does not persuade every loving dog owner. For some the question remains "why should I have my pet spayed?"

There are myriad objections owners have to spaying their dogs. Some consider the cost prohibitive, others believe their dog's pedigree is good reason to keep her intact. Additionally there is a large amount of misinformation circulating about the procedure. While every dog owner should have the right to make this decision, it needs to be an informed one. Those who choose not to have their pet spayed may eventually find themselves fighting a deadly infection called pyometra.

Pyometra (from the Latin pyo, meaning pus, and metra, referring to the uterus) is a condition in which infection causes the uterus to fill with toxic pus. Most often this condition occurs in older dogs 3-6 weeks following a heat cycle. This is because when a dog goes into heat the cervix relaxes in preparation for conception. If the dog does not become pregnant bacteria are afforded the opportunity to enter the welcoming environment of the uterus and multiply.

Symptoms of pyometra may include lethargy, lack of appetite, dehydration, weight loss, bloated abdomen and most notably, a foul-smelling discharge from the vulva. If pyometra is left untreated the uterine wall will eventually rupture, spilling its putrid contents and causing death.

Surgery is usually the recommended treatment for a dog with pyometra. A veterinarian must remove the infected uterus carefully without releasing any of the poison within. This is a delicate and risky procedure that can cost five times as much as a routine spay, yet the outcome is the same. Happily, a successful surgery will lead to full recovery. Since the offending organ has been removed there is no threat of reoccurrence.

Anybody still asking themselves "why should I have my pet spayed?" needs to consider the possibility of their beloved companion developing pyometra. For more information please consult your local veterinarian.