Glory Ridge Shih-Tzu
Hernias in Puppies


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        INGUINAL HERNIAS are prevalent in shih-tzu. A weak area (hole) in the inguinal region allows a small amount of fat to pass into a small sac creating a visible "bulge". In male puppies the fat may pass into the scrotal sac. Small hernias containing only fat do not present a health hazard. Small hernias generally "close up" with maturity as the muscles surrounding the hole grow together.
All Glory Ridge males are neutered through this inguinal region at 7 weeks of age with no consequence.
Females are spayed through this region also.

       UMBILICAL HERNIAS are also prevalent in short faced breeds.
A weak area (hole) in the abdominal wall at the umbilicus allows a small amount of fat to pass into a pocket under the skin. This creates a small bulge over the "belly button". Very small umbilical hernias close with maturity. Out vet usually injects them with iodine under the skin to create a scarring to help close them faster.  Large hernias are surgically closed at neutering/spaying by our vet. There will be swelling on the incisional area for a couple of weeks. This is normal.  Once operated on, they cause no further problem. It is like sewing a split seem in your jeans. If you don't and your chubby, the fat will hang out. Once sewed, your back "together'.  So relax!

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