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My unspayed dog's heat: heavy bleeding, clots, lethargy. What's wrong?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pit Bull Terrier | Female | unspayed | 13 years and 2 months old | 78 lbs

my 12 1/2 yr old female is not spayed, but never had puppies. this heat is different... she"s never bled this much & this long. 2 wks or more plus never passed blood clots. blood is dark & clots are big. stomach seems bloated a little. She seems lethargic.still eating drinking & going to bathroom.Any ideas would be appreciated. Thank you.

4 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on March 5th, 2017

I would have Hennessey seen by a vet immediately. I would be very concerned that this heavy bleeding, lethargy, and bloating is caused by a pyometra. A pyometra is a serous infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment. Using a physical exam, blood tests, urinalysis, and x-rays, the vet can diagnose if she does have a pyometra and can treat her for it. Should she have one, spaying her is part of the recommended treatment. Please take Hennessey into an ER vet or find a vet on call to see her now.

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Dr. Strydom, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 28th, 2019

    Yes you should be worried. It sounds like she might have a pyometra (uterine infection). I suggest you get her to a vet as soon as possible for an exam. ( https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/pyometra/ )

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    Answered By Alysia Van Scoy, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 13th, 2017

    I would be very concerned for Apple. She could have a pyometra which is an infection in her uterus. This can be a life threatening condition. I would take her to a veterinarian as soon as possible for an exam. She will most likely need immediate treatment. Thank you for reaching out to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on March 2nd, 2020

    This could be a pyometra, which is an infection of the uterus that is fatal without treatment. You need to get Bibi into a vet immediately. If she does have a pyometra, spaying her is the recommended treatment.

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