Puppy belly lump: When should I repair his hernia before neutering?

Question

Hi, I recently noticed a lump on my puppy’s belly. It’s about the size of a large pea and a few inches above his penis. I’m not sure what it may be. The vet said he has an umbilical hernia that could be removed when I neuter him. If it’s the hernia, do you think I should have it removed now or can I wait? I just don’t want it to get worse as I don’t think the lump was there before. My puppy is about 16 weeks old and I planned to neuter him around 6 months old. Thank you for any advice you have. Pet's info: Dog | Pomapoo | Male | neutered | 3 months and 16 days old | 12 lbs

Lotus Altholtz · Accepted Answer

Milo’s a cutie! That does look like a hernia, which is a rift in the abdominal muscle wall where intestines protrude through. Some hernia’s are reducible meaning you can push the bowels back into the abdomen. Some are not, and you are correct, there is always a change that they can get bigger and more dangerous because if they are big enough for a loop of bowel to pass through and twist on itself/strangulate….that can be life threatening. It is best to have the hernia repaired (they’re not removed…rather they bowel is pushed back through and the opening in the abdominal wall is sutured closed) at the time at of the neuter to minimize the number of anesthetic events Milo undergoes. This can be done earlier than 6 months….e.g. at 5 months. You can discuss early neutering and hernia repair this with your vet or wait 2 months and have both done when he is 6 months. Good luck!

Puppy belly lump: When should I repair his hernia before neutering?

Most Helpful Answer

Related Questions

Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?

What fish dog food helps dry skin if my dog eats Science Diet?

My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?

My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?

My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?

My dwarf hamster has a shut eye and is limping. What should I do?

Share