What is the common treatment for a dog with pyometra?

The common treatment for a dog with pyometra is spaying the dog, often referred to as an ovariohysterectomy. Pyometra is a serious, life-threatening condition that affects the uterus, causing it to become filled with pus. This condition typically occurs in older, unspayed female dogs, often following a heat cycle.

Performing an ovariohysterectomy not only removes the source of infection—both the ovaries and the uterus—but also addresses the underlying hormonal influences that can contribute to the disease. Removing these reproductive organs eliminates the risk of recurrence and effectively treats the infection. In cases of pyometra, antibiotics may be used initially to stabilize the dog, but they do not remove the infected uterus and are not a definitive solution.

Hormonal therapy is not a standard treatment for pyometra since it could potentially worsen the condition by stimulating further uterine lining development. Fluid therapy is often part of the supportive care for an affected dog, especially if the dog is dehydrated or in shock, but it does not address the root cause of the disease. Thus, the surgical removal of the reproductive organs is the most effective and commonly recommended treatment for pyometra.