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Why is my older female dog bleeding and has mucus from vulva?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Female

my female dog is bleeding slightly from her vulva. she is about 10 years old. Should I take her to the vet? There also seems to be some mucus coming from the vulva as well. What should I do? I am a dog sitter. Please help.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

Veterinarian

Published on October 25th, 2017

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

I think the most important thing to do is to call Tarra's owners. Ask if she is spayed. The most common cause of bloody discharge from the vulva in an unspayed female dog is either she is in heat (on her period) or has an infected uterus (emergency). If she is spayed then she could have a urinary tract infection or a bleeding/clotting problem.

If Tarra in anyway is acting sick: lethargic, increased thirst or urination, vomiting, diarrhea, breathing heavy then you need to take her to a Vet today.

I hope this helps and I wish you the best of luck!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Massimo Orioles, DVM, Cert AVP, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Published on January 26th, 2019
Vaginal discharge can be caused by a number of things. Both the urethra and vaginal openings exit the vaginal/vulvar area so discharge could indicate a problem with the urinary tract or with the reproductive tract. If your dog is unspayed and showing other signs of heat, it may also indicate she is getting ready to go into heat. With any strange discharge, it is a good idea to schedule a veterinary appointment to check it out. If the discharge becomes cloudy, green or yellow in color, it is best to seek veterinary care as soon as possible as that may indicate something more serious such as a uterine infection (in unspayed females, but can occur if part of the uterine stump is left during a spay).
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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