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Pet Article
PETS AND HERNIAS
A hernia can occur when an organ passes through a hole in the contained space it is supposed
to occupy. Hernias in your pets may be there at birth 9congenital), acquired, or secondary
to a traumatic episode. Hernias can also be classified according to the state of their
contents. If the contents of the hernia can be pushed back into normal position, the hernia
is reducible. If not, the hernia is irreducible. Irreducible hernias are more likely to
develop into a more serious condition known as a strangulating hernia, this is when the blood
flow to the herniated tissue is cut off or reduced. The herniated tissue may then deteriorate
if not quickly treated. This can be especially serious if the intestinal loops, or the
urinary bladder is involved.
If the hernia is congenital, it's usually not painful, but when the hernia is caused by trauma,
or when the contents of the hernia are strangulated, the animal will be in pain and its overall
condition will get progressively worse. Although most hernias are not considered to be
medical emergencies (unless they are strangulated), you should call your veterinarian if you
notice an unusual protrusion from your pets abdomen, to determine whether or not something
needs to be done straight away.
Congenital umbilical hernias are more common in breeds like, Airedales, Basenjis, Pekingese,
Pointers and Weimaraners. Sometimes by cutting the umbilical cord too close at birth can
cause an umbilical hernia, but it is generally considered an inherited defect. Umbilical
hernias appear as a soft swelling in the umbilical area. Dogs do not outgrow the umbilical
hernia, but it's not critical unless the hole is large enough to allow organs or
intestines to protrude. Should you notice an umbilical hernia in your puppy, you should ask
your veterinarian if it is something that needs to be taken care of right away or, if you can
wait until you animal is neutered or spayed. Neutering your pet is an especially good idea
in pets with congenital hernias because of the genetic basis for the defect and the potential
for passing the genetic defect to their offspring.
Hernias in the groin region are called Inguinal Hernias. These commonly occur in female dogs
that are pregnant or in heat. The animal usually has a soft, painless mass in the groin
area. Congenital hernias in the groin region are more likely to occur in males.
Your pet can also experience hernias in the region between its anus and vulva or testicles.
These hernias are called perianal hernias. Older, male dogs tend to be the most likely to
experience this condition, especially if they are not castrated and have a large prostate.
These hernias usually consist of fat but may contain the urinary bladder and/or prostate.
A pet with a perianal hernia may be unable to urinate and may have a rapidly enlarging
swelling right next to the anus if the urinary bladder becomes trapped in the hernia.
Automobile accidents, dog fights, gunshot wounds, or other blunt or sharp forms of trauma
can cause an abdominal hernia. After your pet's abdominal hernia has been repaired, the
animal should be kept quiet and observed for signs of wound infection.
Time is necessary for proper healing of the hernia or it may recur. For further questions
about hernias in pets, call your veterinarian.
Mark Woodcock
1 Flea Control
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