It’s not uncommon for puppies to develop an umbilical hernia. They happen pretty frequently and can be divided into two types: reducible and non-reducible. Understanding the difference, knowing what to look for, and familiarizing yourself with treatment options will allow you to respond appropriately if your puppy happens to develop one.
Puppy Umbilical Hernia
Umbilical hernias develop in puppies because the umbilical ring, which is an opening in the abdominal wall, doesn’t close properly after birth. What develops is a bulge on the dog’s underside, on the belly, because inside something is protruding through that umbilical ring. Sometimes it is a portion of the intestines, that have the potential to become twisted or entangled, and that condition is a life-threatening emergency.
Many times, umbilical hernias are most noticeable when a dog stands, barks, or is crying. And they can range in size.
Smaller ones often have the ability to correct themselves. And if they are going to close on their own, they usually do so by the age of four months. If they don’t, veterinarians generally recommend that a corrective treatment take place during a spay or neuter procedure.
Umbilical Hernia Repair
If your puppy experiences an umbilical hernia that is non-reducible, meaning the protrusion can’t be pushed back into the abdomen, treatment is likely necessary. And most times, that treatment can coincide with a spay or neuter procedure, if the timing is right.
For any puppy owner hoping to find affordable pet surgery, pairing that umbilical hernia repair treatment with a spay or neuter is the way to go. At Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit, for example, we offer a significant discount on umbilical hernia treatment if it is paired with a spay or neuter procedure.
In part, because the puppy is already in surgery at the time.
Affordable Pet Surgery
While umbilical hernia repair surgery on its own starts at about $340, we only charge $60 to $80 for the procedure when it is added to a spay or neuter.
To save money and to correct an abnormality before it becomes a bigger problem, it’s best to get an umbilical hernia examined. If surgery is called for, Dr. Kelly’s can handle the procedure at a fraction of the cost.
The procedure itself involves removing any scar tissue or adhesions that have formed around the affected area and closing the area with sutures. The prognosis for puppies that experience umbilical hernia repair surgery is considered excellent and complications rarely present themselves.
If you think your puppy may have an umbilical hernia that needs correcting, reach out to the specialized surgical staff at Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit to schedule an appointment. Remember to schedule that procedure in conjunction with a spay or neuter to avoid additional procedures and make the treatment more affordable.
Dr. Kelly’s Surgical Unit is a trusted veterinary team serving the Phoenix, Peoria, East Mesa, Queen Creek, and Tucson metro areas, with accessible locations in each market, offering highly specialized surgery, quality spay and neuter procedures, and accessible dental care for pets. Contact us to learn more about our specialized services or to schedule an appointment.
