Puppy Hernia

By Dr. Hannah Godfrey

A hernia occurs when there is a hole in the muscle wall of the abdomen through which a pouch or sack of abdominal contents can protrude. Depending on the size of the hole, the contents of the hernial sac will vary. If the hole is very small only a small amount of abdominal fat may fit through. However, if the defect is large, portions of the guts or other organs may protrude.

Although puppies can get hernias in other places, the term ‘puppy hernia’ usually refers to an umbilical hernia. This is a hernia of their belly button, where their umbilical cord would have been attached in the womb. Hernias can be congenital, which means present from birth, or they can develop later, usually through trauma. But even though puppies can occasionally acquire hernias through trauma, a puppy hernia refers to a congenital umbilical hernia. The Vets – Puppy Hernia Explained: What It Is and What to do to Help Your Pup

Hernias in puppies, what you need to know

petMD – Hernias in Puppies: What You Need to Know

Hernias in dogs

VCA Hospitals – What is an umbilical hernia?

Hernias in cats

VCA Hospitals – Umbilical Hernia in Cats

**The Vet Corner groups encourage members to establish a relationship with their local veterinarian, don’t wait until an emergency.**