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Shih Tzu - Hernias
By Connie Limon, Fri Dec 9th
Umbilical and inguinal hernias are very common in the shih tzu.They may be congenital or acquired. In acquired hernias, theregenerally is some history of trauma such is at birth with theumbilical cord being cut to short or excessive pull on the cordduring the cutting process. Congenital hernias involve thediaphragm or the abdominal wall. There are three main typesinvolving the diaphragm. They are peritoneopericardial whereabdominal contents are found extending into the pericardial sac;pleuropetioneal, in which abdominal contents are found withinthe pleural cavity; and hiatal, in which the abdominalesophagus, gastroesophageal junction, and/or portions of thestomach protrude through the esophageal hiatus of the diaphragminto the thoracic cavity. Clinical signs vary from no symptoms to severe and depend on theamount of herniated tissue and its effect on the organ it isdisplacing. Hiatal hernias may be "sliding" and result inclinical signs of reflux esophagitis (anorexia, salivation,and/or vomiting) that may come and go. Definitive diagnosis isdone through radiology, and contrast studies are need forconfirmation. Correction of all the aforementioned hernias isbest done
through surgery. Hernias involving the abdominal wall include umbilical,inguinal, or scrotal. An umbilical hernia is secondary tofailure of the normal closure of the umbilical ring and resultin protrusion of the abdominal wall. In small animals, if thehernia is small, correction is best done at time of spaying orneutering and this is best done no earlier than 6 months of age.Sometimes a small umbilical or inguinal hernia will have closedon its own by the time the dog reaches 6 months of age. If not,then it most usually is recommended to be closed during thesterialization process. If you are not planning to sterializeyour animal, then the hernia can be repaired at 6 months of age,and preferably not before then, unless there is a medical reasonto do so.
About the author:Connie Limon publishes a FREE weekly newsletter. A professionalnewsletter with a focus upon health and wellness for you andyour pets. Discounts on shih tzu are offered tosubscribers. Current available puppies. Sign up athttp://www.stainglassshihtzus.com
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