Stella’s Painful Uterine Infection

By Kay Hisano | Dated March 5, 2025

Stella, a 3-year-old female Golden Retriever Cross, was presented at Gordon Vet Hospital with abnormal vulval discharge. Her owner first noticed the discharge in the morning and tracked it back to Stella’s tail and hind limbs. Although Stella appeared bright and happy, her recent decrease in activity and fussiness with food raised some concerns.

With a thorough physical assessment, blood work and cytology, Dr. Helen was able to diagnose Stella with pyometra.

Pyometra is an infection of the uterus and most commonly affects non-desexed female dogs. As simple as the disease may sound, pyometra can cause severe unwellness and does require immediate veterinary attention. Symptoms of pyometra can be vague but often include lethargy, lack of appetite, and depression. Fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, or vulval discharge may also be present.

Dr. Helen recommended immediate surgical intervention—an ovariohysterectomy (spay)—to remove Stella’s ovaries and infected uterus. The procedure went smoothly, and Stella was sent home with pain relief and antibiotics.

A couple of days afterwards Stella came back in for her recheck and she had returned to her vibrant self, eagerly enjoying her meals again!