Metritis in Dogs Metritis is inflammation of the endometrium
(lining) of the uterus due to a bacterial infection, usually
occurring within a week after a dog has given birth. It can also
develop after a natural or medical abortion, miscarriage, or
after a non-sterile artificial insemination. The bacteria that
are most often responsible for infection of the uterus are gram-
negative bacteria like Escherichia coli, which often spreads
into the blood, causing a blood infection. The infection may
lead to sterility, and if left untreated, septic shock, a lethal
condition, may follow. Symptoms and Types - Discharge from the
vulva that smells bad; discharge with pus, or pus mixed with
blood; discharge that is dark green - Swollen, dough-like
abdomen - Dehydration (the skin stays tented for a few seconds
when pinched) - Dark red gums - Reduced milk production - Lack
of appetite - Neglect of puppies - Increased heart rate if the
bacterial infection has become systemic - Difficult birth -
Prolonged delivery, perhaps wit