First, let's take a look at the 3 different types of spaying that can be done:
1)
When a female dog is spayed, the procedure most commonly performed is called an ovariohysterectomy. It is quite extensive; the entire reproductive tract is removed. This includes the ovaries, oviducts, uterine horns, and the uterus.
2)
Less commonly is a tubal ligation, in which with the oviducts are cut and structured, which prevents pregnancy however the dog will still have heat cycles.
3)
Another less commonly used method is a hysterectomy in the uterus is removed, but the ovaries remain. With this, since the ovaries are in the body the dog will enter heat; the vulva will swell and she will secrete pheromones that attract males; however since the uterus is removed, there is no bloody discharge.
Post Spaying Discharge
- There is some discharge that is considered normal:
• From the incision site itself (on the lower tummy) it is normal for there to be some light discharge of fluid or blood for 3 to 4 days after the surgery.
• Some 'old' blood due to the surgery may leave the dog's body via the vagina and this will appear as a very dark red to a brown discharge over the course of 7 to 10 days.
Red Flags-
If there is discharge of any color seeping out from the Pomerania's vagina after the first week, particularly if it worsens and becomes heavier over time, this could point to an infection and the veterinarian should be notified immediately.
There are cases of a dog still have regular heat cycles after being spayed: how can this happen? We cover this next.