When it comes to female dogs, few conditions are as dangerous and urgent as pyometra. This life-threatening uterine infection can develop rapidly, often without clear warning signs, and requires immediate veterinary attention. At TVS Hospitals, with locations in North York and Downtown Toronto, our experienced surgical team is fully equipped to diagnose and treat pyometra swiftly and affordably, saving lives, easing pain, and giving families peace of mind.
What Is Pyometra?
Pyometra is a bacterial infection of the uterus that typically occurs in unspayed female dogs due to hormonal changes after a heat cycle. These hormonal shifts create an ideal environment for bacteria to grow in the uterine lining. The uterus then fills with pus, putting the dog at risk of systemic infection, sepsis, kidney failure, and death if untreated.
There are two types of pyometra:
- Open pyometra: where pus drains from the vulva, often accompanied by a foul odor.
- Closed pyometra: where the cervix is shut, trapping infection inside and making it even more dangerous due to rapid toxin buildup.
Pyometra can affect dogs of any breed, typically over the age of six, and is considered a medical emergency.
Common Signs of Pyometra in Dogs
Pyometra symptoms can vary but often include:
- Lethargy and weakness
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Increased thirst and urination
- Swollen or tender abdomen
- Vaginal discharge (in open pyometra)
- Fever
- Rapid heart rate
In closed pyometra, symptoms are even more subtle and can escalate quickly to critical condition. That’s why it’s crucial to act fast at the first sign of illness in an unspayed female dog, especially after a recent heat cycle.
Why Immediate Treatment Matters
Pyometra can progress to septic shock, kidney failure, or even rupture of the uterus, all of which can be fatal. The most effective and reliable treatment is emergency surgical removal of the infected uterus and ovaries (an ovariohysterectomy).
At TVS Hospitals, our team is trained to handle these high-risk surgeries with precision and care. We use advanced diagnostic tools such as bloodwork and ultrasound imaging to confirm the diagnosis and prepare your dog for safe surgery.
TVS Hospitals: Affordable, Life-Saving Surgical Care
We understand how emotionally, and financially stressful pet emergencies can be. That’s why TVS Hospitals offers:
- Affordable pyometra surgery packages
- Same-day emergency appointments
- Modern anesthesia and monitoring equipment
- Compassionate post-operative care
Our surgical team is made up of skilled veterinarians and technicians with years of experience treating reproductive emergencies. We treat every dog as if they were our own, with kindness, urgency, and respect.
Preventing Pyometra: The Role of Spaying
The best way to prevent pyometra is to spay your dog before her first or second heat cycle. Spaying removes the uterus and ovaries, eliminating the risk of uterine infections and significantly reducing the chance of other reproductive diseases, including mammary tumors.
At TVS Hospitals, we offer spay procedures with pre-anesthetic testing, personalized care plans, and full recovery guidance. If you’re unsure whether or when to spay, our veterinarians will help you make an informed decision based on your dog’s age, breed, and health.
Post-Surgical Recovery and Care
After pyometra surgery, your dog will need rest and careful monitoring. Most pets go home within 24 to 48 hours with medication for pain and infection prevention. We provide:
- Tailored recovery instructions
- Follow-up appointments to monitor healing
- Nutritional guidance for immune support
- Emotional support for pet parents through recovery
Our team is always available to answer questions and provide advice during your dog’s healing process.
Why Choose TVS Hospitals?
Choosing a hospital for emergency surgery is never easy. At TVS Hospitals, we take pride in offering:
- Trusted veterinary care in two locations
- Transparent pricing and flexible payment options
- Experienced, compassionate surgical teams
- 24/7 emergency support guidance
Your pet’s safety and comfort come first, and our mission is to deliver care that’s not only medically excellent but emotionally supportive.
Act Fast, Save a Life
If your unspayed female dog is showing signs of illness, especially following a heat cycle, don’t wait. Pyometra is a true emergency, and early action can be the difference between life and death.
Call TVS Hospitals immediately to schedule a consultation or emergency visit:
North York Location 223 Sheppard Ave W, Toronto, ON M2N 1N2
(416) 222-5409
Downtown Toronto Location 584 Parliament St, Toronto, ON M4X 1P8
(416) 960-4442
Or visit www.tvshospitals.com to learn more or book online.
Because when every second counts, you can count on us.