An
umbilical hernia is a condition where a part of the intestines pushes through a weak spot in the abdominal wall near the belly button.
Full definition
We have found it helpful to provide a written, referenced discussion
of umbilical hernias in Bernese Mountain Dogs that can be presented to the puppy's veterinarian to assist in making knowledgeable recommendations to the owner.
Our team is also pleased to offer additional surgical procedures for your pet during his or her spay / neuter procedure such as
umbilical hernia repair, cryptorchid neuter (abdominal and inguinal), retained deciduous tooth removal, and hind dewclaw removal for dogs.
The prevalence of
umbilical hernias in certain breeds and certain family lines indicates a genetic predisposition to the condition that can be passed on through generations.
Have had a hysterectomy, vaginal prolapsing and / or abdominal surgeries like repair of a
large umbilical hernia (but not everyone)
Occasionally, a baby will develop a condition known
as umbilical hernia after the stump falls off.
* NOTE * If your bunny suffers from complications such as
open umbilical hernia or undescended testicles, an extra surcharge may be needed for the extra surgical services.
It is always favourable to repair
umbilical hernias at the time of spaying or another surgery so that a dog doesn't need to go through two rounds of anaesthesia.
Normally umbilical hernias are just fat passing through the opening, but in some cases intestine or other abdominal content passes through and may cause strangulation which is a medical emergency; if you see discolouration, signs of pain, loss of appetite or other concerning symptoms visit your Veterinarian immediately, otherwise consult with your Veterinarian during a vaccination visit.
In fact, the AKC's disqualification applying to all breeds regarding hernia surgery mentions only corrections of inguinal (in or near the groin), scrotal or perineal (near the anus) hernias,
not umbilical hernias.
Simple umbilical hernias involving only fat tissue with no involvement of the intestine or other organs may spontaneously resolve before six months of age.
If your dog underwent
umbilical hernia surgery, carefully follow the veterinarian's follow up instructions to ensure full recovery.
In
irreducible umbilical hernias, x-rays and / or ultrasounds are required in order to determine if any abdominal organs are entrapped, and the severity of the entrapment.
Umbilical hernias do tend to be an inherited condition, and dogs with this problem should not be bred, so that they don't pass on the condition, as well as due to any problem they may have during the pregnancy.
Allergies and ear problems are ubiquitous, and
even umbilical hernias, and severe dental problems are not uncommon.
If the hernia remains very small and uncomplicated it may resolve itself in time but large,
complicated umbilical hernias require veterinary treatment.
Breed - Related Health
Concerns Umbilical hernias; eye problems; patellar luxation; undescended testicles; intervertbral disc protrusion; breathing problems due to deformities of nose and mouth
Cryptorchid (the absence of one or both testes from the scrotum) Obese In Heat Pregnant Umbilical hernia
Russian breeders report that some lines have a predisposition
towards umbilical hernias, a problem that can be surgically repaired.
Through our unique externship program we are able to teach the basics: animal handling, basic physical examination, basic diagnostics, anesthesia, appropriate patient / surgeon prep, aseptic technique, and soft tissue surgical procedures and techniques (spay, neuter,
possibly umbilical hernia repair, and basic soft tissue surgeries).
EDITOR»S NOTE: This article is presented in support of the fact that ours is not the only breed that
finds umbilical hernias common.
3 females from our 2 yr old Aussies first litter have
minor umbilical hernias, what do you suggest as far as treatment, if any.
We have a great dane about 10 weeks right now, he has a small, pea -
sized umbilical hernia that does not seem to cause any pain.
Some dogs live their whole life with
umbilical hernias without issues whilst others have problems in puppyhood; if you are waiting until twelve weeks you should restrict movement, no jumping on furniture, running outside (put on a lead) and use general common sense.
There should be no reason that you can not breed a dog with an
acquired umbilical hernia; obviously if you notice pain or discomfort during mating, swelling, discolouration, loss of appetite, lethargy or any other symptom visit your Veterinarian immediately.
In severe cases
of umbilical hernia the pet should be examined for cleft palate and heart abnormalities.
* NOTE * If your kitten suffers from complications such as
open umbilical hernia or undescended testicles, an extra surcharge may be needed for the extra surgical services.