As a dog owner, it’s important to stay informed about conditions that can impact your pet’s health, especially those that require immediate attention. One such condition is pyometra, a serious uterine infection that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. If your dog is diagnosed with pyometra, emergency surgery may be the only option to save her life. At Omega Veterinary Group, we are equipped with advanced technology and a skilled surgical team to handle such emergencies 24/7.

What Is Pyometra?

Pyometra is an infection of the uterus, commonly seen in older, unspayed female dogs. It occurs when bacteria enter the uterus during a dog’s heat cycle. Over time, the uterus fills with pus, and the infection can rapidly become dangerous. The condition can be open or closed, depending on whether the cervix is open and able to drain the infection.

While the early symptoms may be subtle, they often progress quickly. Common signs include:

  • Lethargy
  • Vomiting
  • Increased thirst and urination
  • Vaginal discharge (in open pyometra cases)
  • Abdominal swelling

If you notice any of these signs in your dog, immediate veterinary attention is crucial.

Why Pyometra Requires Emergency Surgery

Pyometra is a medical emergency because the infection can quickly spread throughout the body, leading to sepsis, kidney failure, or even death. The most effective and immediate treatment is an ovariohysterectomy, or spay surgery, to remove the infected uterus and ovaries. This surgery is similar to a routine spay, but it becomes much more complicated in the presence of infection and inflammation.

Delaying surgery can lead to severe complications, such as:

  • Uterine rupture: If the infected uterus ruptures, it releases pus into the abdomen, leading to peritonitis, a life-threatening infection.
  • Systemic infection (sepsis): Once the bacteria spread into the bloodstream, it becomes much harder to treat and can result in multi-organ failure.

At Omega Veterinary Group, we understand the urgency of treating pyometra. Our facility is prepared for emergency surgical procedures, offering both the expertise and advanced tools to manage critical situations. Read more about our critical care department here

What to Expect During Pyometra Surgery

Once your dog is diagnosed with pyometra, immediate surgical intervention is necessary. Here’s what you can expect during the process:

  1. Diagnostic Tests
    Before surgery, we will perform diagnostic tests, including bloodwork and imaging (such as ultrasound or X-rays), to assess the severity of the infection and ensure your dog is stable for anesthesia.
  2. The Surgery
    During surgery, the infected uterus and ovaries will be removed. This procedure is the most reliable way to eliminate the infection. Although the procedure is similar to a spay, the infection makes the surgery more complex.
  3. Postoperative Care
    After surgery, your dog will require close monitoring. At Omega Veterinary Group, we have a dedicated Canine ICU where your dog will receive 24/7 care, including pain management, IV fluids, and antibiotics to prevent any secondary infections.

Recovery After Surgery

The recovery process following pyometra surgery can vary depending on the severity of the infection at the time of treatment. In most cases, dogs will stay in the hospital for a few days to ensure their condition stabilizes. During recovery, we will:

  • Monitor your dog’s vital signs and organ function closely.
  • Provide pain relief and manage any signs of discomfort.
  • Adjust antibiotics and fluids to support recovery.

Once discharged, follow-up care is essential. We will provide you with detailed instructions for home care, including medication schedules and signs to watch for that might indicate complications. With proper care, most dogs recover well and go on to lead normal, healthy lives.

Why Omega Veterinary Group Is Your Best Choice for Pyometra Treatment

At Omega Veterinary Group, we pride ourselves on being available for your pet in times of need. Our clinic is open 24/7 to handle emergencies like pyometra, with a team of experienced veterinarians and board-certified specialists who are prepared to perform critical surgeries at a moment’s notice. Here’s what sets us apart:

  • Advanced Diagnostic and Surgical Tools: We use high-definition ultrasound and state-of-the-art surgical equipment to ensure accurate diagnostics and safe, effective surgeries.
  • 24/7 Emergency Care: Our emergency team is always ready to respond, no matter the time of day.
  • Collaborative Care: We work closely with you, educating you on the condition and treatment options so you can make informed decisions about your dog’s health.

We understand that facing an emergency can be stressful. That’s why we’re here to guide you every step of the way, providing compassionate, expert care to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.

Preventing Pyometra

The best way to prevent pyometra is to spay your dog. Spaying eliminates the risk of uterine infections entirely, as well as reducing the likelihood of other reproductive health issues, such as mammary tumors. If your dog is not spayed and you are concerned about the risk of pyometra, consult with our team about the benefits of this procedure.

Contact Omega Veterinary Group Today

If you suspect your dog may be suffering from pyometra or if you have any concerns about her health, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Omega Veterinary Group, we’re here 24/7 to provide emergency care and advanced medical treatment. Your dog’s health and well-being are our top priorities.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us today at Omega Veterinary Group, or visit our Emergency Services page. Call us anytime at 650-910-2647 to speak to one of our dedicated team members.