Hernias in Canines Hernias are a weakness or opening within a muscle mass that allows other tissues to pass through. Three types of hernias are common to canines: Umbilical, inguinal and hiatal which is also known as diaphragmatic. Any type of hernia can become “incarcerated.” This is when the hernia becomes pinched off and then becomes strangulated. This is AN EMERGENCY CONDITION AND the canine requires immediate attention of your veterinarian! Umbilical Hernia The umbilical cord is the tube, which attaches the puppy fetus to the mama through the placenta. A hernia is a hole or a too large opening in the body. Umbilical hernias are the most common hernia in canines. An umbilical hernia is a bulging outward or protrusion of the abdominal lining (belly) through an area around the belly button. In canine’s this may involve part of the intestines coming through the abdominal wall in the navel area. (The navel area is located in the mid-abdominal area.) Umbilical hernias more commonly consist of fatty tissue protruding through the abdominal wall. Umbilical hernias, in canines, are usually congenital – secondary to flawed development. (This cause is said to be inherited.) Another cause is the mama dog biting off the umbilical cord too closely or roughly while whelping the puppy. Veterinarians easily discover an umbilical hernia upon physical exam of the puppy. It is noted that an umbilical hernia may not be immediately noticeable. The abdominal contents may not protrude consistently – they may reduce spontaneously or when the area is pressed on. Please take note: Is the hernia larger than a dime? If so – there is a chance that part of the intestines may be trapped in the opening/hole. This could cause severe or even fatal complications, surgical repair is required. If the area is bruised or painful – immediate surgery will likely be required. Notify your vet of the following symptoms: Redness & tenderness at hernia site Vomiting or sudden signs of distress If the puppy has painful or difficult bowel movements Your vet will advise you on the seriousness of the umbilical hernia and the treatment recommended. Umbilical hernias are more common to the breeds: Weimaraners, Pointers, Airedales, Pekingese, Beagles, and Basenjis. Diaphragmatic Hernia {Hiatal Hernia} The diaphragm is a muscle, which separates the heart and lungs from the abdominal organs. As the diaphragm contracts air enters the lungs. A tear in this muscle results from a defect in the diaphragm allowing the liver, stomach and/or intestines to enter the chest cavity. A hiatal hernia may be present at birth (congenital) or caused by trauma such as being hit by an automobile, being kicked or falling with the most common cause being hit by an automobile. The vet may diagnose this type of hernia through physical exam and/or diagnostic testing. If your canine has been hit by a car – immediate attention by your vet is recommended. Symptoms of a hiatal hernia:
Treatment: Hiatal {Diaphragmatic} hernias seem to be most common to the Chinese Shar-Pei breed.
Inguinal hernia An inguinal hernia is located in the groin area on the inner part of the rear leg of a canine. It is a skin covered bulging over the groin. Inguinal hernias can be on both sides (Bilateral) or on just one side. An inguinal hernia develops as a result of birth defects as well as trauma. In female canines – she may develop an inguinal hernia during her pregnancy as a result of the abdominal walls stretching to allow room for the puppies. In puppies, inguinal hernias usually develop prior to the age of 3 months. Some inguinal hernias may shrink and heal on their own – others may need surgical repair. Inguinal hernias are common in many different breeds of canines.
The symptom of an umbilical hernia is a soft swelling in the navel (umbilical) area. It is not considered critical unless the opening is large enough to allow organs or intestines to protrude. Most umbilical hernias are not serious. Small umbilical hernias have been noted to close spontaneously by the age of 6 months. For this reason, many vets will recommend waiting until the puppy is 6 months of age before repairing surgically.
ALERT:
Paper shredders can harm your dog!
If your dog or puppy is inside your home - beware of paper shredders! They can harm your pet! As I was researching hernias I came across an article about dogs and paper shredders. It told a story of how one owners dog began licking her paper shredder. The paper shredder engaged and drew the dogs' tongue through the blades. This resulted in the dog having to be put to sleep due to the damage to his tougue. So if your pet is in your home - keep those paper shredders in the off mode until you are right there to use it. Keep your pet safe!
Dew Claws
Dew claws are an extra digit on a dog. They are usually located on the inside of the front leg and sometimes also on the hind legs. Many dog breeders remove dew claws from puppies. This is performed by the vet within 3 - 7 days of birth. If dew claws are not removed in the first week - then the vet will recommend waiting until the puppy is old enough to be sedated - usually at the time the puppy is spayed or neutered or at least 6 months of age.
There is contraversy about removing dew claws. Some argue that dew claws are useful in a dog - assisting the dog in handling bones or such with their paws. Others argue they serve no purpose and often can become torn off while the dog is working or playing. Many times the dew claws on a canine's rear legs are loosely attached and are high enough up on the leg they do not come into contact wtih the ground. This suports the arguement of the dew claws serving no purpose and supports reason for removal. At Arkansas White Shepherds - we have the vet remove the dew claws within 3 days of birth.
A Dog's Mouth
I have heard some folks talk about a dog's mouth being healing and cleaner than a human being. The clean part is not accurate. If you think about it - Dog's eat all kind of things - such as dead animals and fecal material. They lick around on things they find outside on the ground. The chew on shoes, papers, etc. A mother dog cleans her puppies and licks them to stimulate elimination - then she cleans up after they eliminate. They clean their own genital areas. A dog's mouth is full of bacteria. It is true when they lick themselves - they have a healing quality. However their mouths are not real clean inside. So when your dog licks you - enjoy it but wash your hands and where-ever they licked afterwards. For more information - visit Dr Jon at Petplace.com and read his article on a dogs mouth.
FACT or FICTION: Is a dog's mouth cleaner than a human’s?