Expert: Dr. Louis N. Gotthelf - 9/9/2010

Question
Hello, I own a 9yr old Am Pitbull that has had one litter of pups and subsequently spayed. She was 2 when she had the litter and was spayed. Today I noticed a bloody tissue like mucus in the pen where the dogs go to the bathroom. I figured  it was from her because she is not acting normal and didn't eat today( refused her food). I checked her tail and there was a stain on her tail where it would rest against her vagina and her breath smelled like blood or iron, so I'm positive its from her. The discharge was very thick and looked like tissue and mucus mixed together.She is not bleeding right now that I can see. Any thoughts would be much appreciated!! thanks..

Answer
There is a condition called pyometra (pus in the uterus) that can occur in a spayed bitch if too much of the uterine body was left in at the time of surgery. YOur vet would have to X-ray her for that.  I would also advise you to have her checked out and possibly check a urine sample to see if the mucus is coming from her bladder.