Emergency Pyometra Surgery Saves Dior’s Life

After being turned away from three other animal hospitals for lack of funds, Steven F. and Sydney C. brought their dog, a 4-year-old Boxer/pit bull mix named Dior, to the ASPCA Spay/Neuter Clinic in South Los Angeles.
Dior was suffering from an infected uterus, also called a pyometra.

“My Dior baby was super sick,” says Sydney, who has had Dior since she was a puppy. “We were essentially begging for help.”

A Desperate Situation

Sydney and Steven encountered an ASPCA staff member outside the clinic and explained Dior’s symptoms — no appetite, lethargy and discharging pus from her vulva — according to S.J. Montano, a registered veterinary technician and senior manager of the ASPCA clinic.

Within 15 minutes of her arrival, Dior was prepped for surgery.

Sydney had learned about the ASPCA clinic through online research.

“I was desperate,” she says. “The emergency vet hospitals were quoting us thousands of dollars, which we don’t have.”

Emergency Surgery

Sydney had never heard of pyometra until the day Dior had surgery.

Pyometra — which can be fatal in female dogs and cats that are not spayed — is caused by a bacterial infection and can occur after a female has finished a heat cycle.

“When the body experiences hormonal changes, it can heighten the chance of infection,” says Dr. Lori Bierbrier, ASPCA senior medical director of Community Medicine. “Pyometra can also lead to sepsis and kidney failure.”

Symptoms include vaginal discharge, fever, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and increased thirst or urination. The uterus can rupture, spilling the infection into the abdomen. About 25% of unspayed females suffer from pyometra before the age of 10.

Though it was late in the day, the ASPCA team got to work. Due to the serious nature of Dior’s condition, she was quickly examined. Her emergency surgery was performed by Dr. Shelby Pressler and funded 100% by the ASPCA.

Left: Dr. Pressler removes Dior’s infected uterus during surgery; right: Dior during recovery.

Dior was placed on fluids to maintain her blood pressure and received antibiotics and pain medication. She went home that day with an e-collar to prevent her from getting to her fresh incision.

Another Reason for Spaying

The ASPCA encourages all pet parents to spay — or neuter — their pets.

“While there are so many benefits associated with these procedures, many pet owners don’t know it can be dangerous not to have their pets spayed until it’s almost too late,” says Dr. Lori Bierbrier.

It’s best to spay a pet before she goes into heat; around four months of age is ideal. If your unspayed female is symptomatic, take her to a veterinarian immediately.

Dior at home.

‘A Happy Day for All of Us’

Sydney and Steven couldn’t be happier with their experience at the ASPCA clinic.

“The staff truly went above and beyond, and the customer service was nothing short of a blessing,” says Sydney, adding that Dior also received vaccines, a micro-chip, flea and tick treatment and a nail trim. “Having such a resource available for low-income families is invaluable.”

Sydney says Dior was back to normal in three days.

“Dior’s happy ending was a happy day for all of us,” says S.J.

“I’ve told so many people Dior’s incredible story,” Sydney says. “I appreciate the access to such a wonderful team and an impactful program. We are forever grateful to the ASPCA.”

Dior and Steven during an outdoor hike in Chino Hills.

February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, and the ASPCA encourages pet owners to spay their female dogs and cats — and neuter male pets — to help prevent pyometra.