09/14/2025
🌟 Client Spotlight 🌟
I like to call Kira a bit of my step-fur-child since I’ve been part of her training journey from such a young age.
Normally she comes in for bi-weekly maintenance sessions, but this week looked very different when she needed emergency surgery.
Kira was diagnosed with pyometra, a life-threatening infection, and had to undergo an overnight surgery and to perform her ovariohysterectomy. (Spay)
I want to share her story not only to educate, pyometra is extremely dangerous if not caught in time, and although she was already scheduled to be spayed, her body had other plans but also to highlight the importance of training.
Because Kira is used to structure, she settles well in her crate and pen. This may seem like a small thing, but at the vet, dogs spend a lot of time confined while recovering. If a dog isn’t used to this, it adds unnecessary stress for both the animal and the veterinary staff.
Training made her recovery smoother, less stressful, and likely reduced the need for extra sedation.
The vets said she was an absolute star throughout her time there and I couldn’t be prouder of Kira and her parents for their commitment to the training like they have!
None of us ever expect situations like this to happen, but when they do, you’re grateful for the work you’ve put in ahead of time. 💛
⚠️ A quick note on Pyometra:
Pyometra is a severe infection of the uterus that can happen to any unspayed female dog.
Kira had her first silent heat back in July, meaning she didn’t show obvious signs of being in heat. Pyometra can develop a few weeks to months after a heat cycle.
The cause is hormonal and bacterial: after a heat, the uterus is more susceptible to infection due to changes in the lining caused by progesterone. Bacteria, often from the va**na, can enter the uterus and multiply, leading to an infection. If left untreated, this infection can become life-threatening very quickly.
There are two types of pyometra:
• Open pyometra: The cervix is open, so pus or discharge is visible from the v***a. Swelling or inflammation of the v***a is often more noticeable.
• Closed pyometra: The cervix is closed, so no discharge is visible. The v***a may appear normal or only slightly swollen, which can make it harder to detect.
Some warning signs to watch for include:
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Loss of appetite
• Increased drinking and urination
• Vomiting
• Vaginal discharge
• Abdominal swelling or discomfort
• Inflamed or swollen v***a
I’m not promoting spaying or discouraging it, this is just to raise awareness of the risks that can happen.
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s critical to see a vet immediately.
Early detection can be life-saving.
Please help me wish her a speedy recovery!
