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Why is my unspayed senior dog bleeding, shaking, and not eating?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Jack Russell Terrier | Female | unspayed | 15 years and 3 months old

My 15 year old un-spayed jack Russel has been bleeding and leaking a bloody discharge from her vagina for 2 weeks now. She is shaking now and is off her food and water too

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Justin Plunk, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 13th, 2017

Hi, thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am sorry to hear that Cagney is not doing well. With her being intact and having the discharge you are describing, I am particularly worried about a condition known as pyometra which is an infection within her uterus. While there are other possibilities, a pyometra is most likely. Unfortunately, this is not something that can wait until tomorrow. Please seek veterinary attention for Cagney as soon as possible tonight. If she does have a pyometra, her condition can go downhill rapidly without aggressive intervention. I hope this helps and that Cagney gets better soon!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 24th, 2018

    I would be very concerned that Felony has a pyometra. This is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment and causes the symptoms you are describing. She does have to see a vet immediately for these symptoms. I would see if there is an ER vet clinic in your area; if not, there will be a vet on call for emergencies. The information to reach that vet is found on a clinic's answering machine or website. Please call around local clinics to find someone open to see her now. If she does have a pyometra, spaying her is part of the recommended treatment. Good luck, I hope this helps!

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    Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 12th, 2018

    The signs you are describing are compatible with an uterine infection called pyometra. This is a medical and surgical emergency and requires immediate treatment. This diagnosis needs to be confirmed by your veterinarian and in many cases uterus must be removed surgically to resolve the problem. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

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    Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on February 7th, 2018

    Since she isn't spayed she could have a uterine infection (pyometra) so she needs to be examined by a vet. Pyometra can be life threatening, if not treated, so call your vet or take her to an emergency clinic to be examined.

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