Pyometra
This is an important and serious condition (pus in the womb) in which the uterus is infected. Although it is usually confined to maiden bitches of 6 years of age or more, it is occasionally seen in young bitches as a result of infection acquired at the time of whelping or contracted from the stud dog. When a bitch is not bred from, the uterine tissues begin to deteriorate in the course of time, and this makes them more likely to become infected with harmful bacteria. In the case of young bitches accidentally infected after mating or whelping there is no degeneration of the uterine tissues, but infection occurs from outside, usually with the commoner groups of micro-organisms. All bitches should have at least one litter, which will, to a large extent, prevent this dangerous condition.
There are two types of pyometra, open and closed, the latter being far more acute. The symptoms vary, but fever is always present (from 103°F. upwards); there is loss of appetite, vaginal discharge (in the open type) of a brownish or pinkish colour and, as the condition becomes worse, great thirst, frequent vomiting and finally prostration. If untreated, a toxaemia quickly sets in. In the closed type, which can rapidly prove fatal, the symptoms are more acute, the fever is usually greater, there is no discharge and as the pus cannot escape, it is pent up within the uterus, there is considerable abdominal enlargement and the abdomen feels hard and is painful to the touch. A case of pyometra may begin as an open type and end as a closed, or vice versa.
Whatever its type, pyometra is a very serious and frequently fatal condition, and it requires immediate
expert attention if the bitch's life is to be saved. Provided it is performed before the animal becomes too weak and toxic, an operation involving removal of the uterus and its infected contents (ovario-hysterectomy) is usually successful, but it must be carried out quickly. Mixture i may be given in small amounts until the veterinary surgeon arrives (Appendix, p. 115). Where the bitch is valuable as a brood or is very old and weak, more conservative treatment may be decided upon, and this is often successful provided it is begun at an early stage, but whatever the type of pyometra, and whatever the age of the bitch, early treatment is important.
Although pyometra can appear at any time, the danger period is about 4-6 weeks from the end of the last season, and any signs of increased thirst, slight abdominal enlargement, etc., should be regarded as highly suspicious.
Shock
Shock is evidenced by a collapse of the circulation. It is usually due to internal injury, haemorrhages, poisoning, peritonitis or similar severe and serious states. It is important that in all cases of shock the animal is attended as soon as possible by a veterinary surgeon. An animal in a state of shock is weak but usually conscious, extremities are cold, mucous membranes (e.g., gums) pale, and respirations shallow and rapid.
The animal should be placed in a warm room surrounded by rugs, blankets and hot water-bottles. Lying the animal on its right side on an electric blanket is ideal as this gives regular, equal warmth. Stimulants should not be given by mouth if there is any suspicion of internal injury, but if this possibility is absent any of the following may be given:
One teaspoonful to 1 tablespoonful (according to size) of brandy or whisky. Glucose (dissolved in a little warm milk) or any other warm milk food, e.g., Bengers', Horlicks', etc. Small amounts should be given every 5-10 minutes.
The animal must be kept absolutely still and quiet. If there is any vomiting following the administration by mouth of a preparation, this dosing should be stopped.
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