Umbilical Hernia

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                      General Information



An umbilical hernia is the protrusion of abdominal contents

beneath the skin at the navel (umbilicus).



The umbilicus is the healed scar ("belly button") in the

mid-abdominal area.  It marks the opening through which the

prenatal blood vessels and other fetal structures passed before

birth.  After the umbilical cord is cut at birth, the opening

rapidly closes.  Occasionally, however, it does not close

completely, and the opening in the abdominal wall remains.



The danger of a hernia is the potential entrapment of intestines

through this opening.  If the hernia interferes with the blood

supply to the trapped bowel, passage of food through the bowel is

blocked.  Also, the strangulated tissue dies and releases toxins

that may kill the animal.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Small hernias:  Most small hernias are no danger to your 

    pet's health.  Some may close before the animal reaches

    maturity; therefore, no treatment is necessary.

    Occasionally, surgical repair is delayed in female dogs

    until it is performed at ovariohysterectomy (spaying).



2.  Large hernias:  These hernias may be very serious because

    a portion of intestine may become entrapped and its blood

    supply cut off.



        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * You observe redness and tenderness at the hernia site.



    * Your pet vomits or shows sudden signs of distress.



    * Your pet has painful or difficult bowel movements.