My senior golden is eating less. Is his belly button mass serious?

Question

My golden has been slowly eating less and less. He is 11.5 and we are worried about whats going on. The vet found a mass on his belly button a few months ago but told us it was just a belly button hernia and not to worry. Should we be worried about this? Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Male | neutered | 11 years and 8 months old | 70 lbs

Dr. Davis · Accepted Answer

Yes I'm concerned with him not eating well and most likely losing weight. I do not think the umbilical hernia is the problem. As Luke is a senior dog I recommend another veterinary exam and a senior panel including a urinalysis. That will check his kidney and liver function, make sure he's not anemic and that he doesn't have a urinary infection. In addition the veterinarian will listen to his heart and lungs to make sure they are normal, and feel in his abdomen for internal masses. There are many treatable problems if they are detected early. He may just not be eating well due to painful arthritis. If his blood work is normal they can put him on pain medication if that's the problem. Not eating well can be due to many medical issues so taking him in and finding the reason is the smart thing to do so he can get treatment and hopefully get back to eating and feeling better. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Luke.

My senior golden is eating less. Is his belly button mass serious?

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