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Question:

Abdominal hernia after spay (dog)

I'm reaching out because I'm really worried about my sweet girl, Luna. She's a two-year-old lab mix and she just got spayed last week. Everything seemed fine at first, but a couple of days ago, I noticed a bulge on her belly near the incision site. It's soft and doesn't seem to bother her too much when I touch it, but of course, I freaked out and did some Googling. Now I'm worried it might be a hernia. I'm planning to call the vet first thing in the morning, but I can't help stressing out right now. Has anyone else dealt with something like this? Is it normal, or should I be super concerned? I just want my baby to be okay. Any advice or similar experiences would be really appreciated. Thanks.

Answer:

Hello there! It’s perfectly normal to feel a bit worried if you suspect your dog might have an abdominal hernia after being spayed. Let’s unravel this together.

Post-surgery, a hernia can sometimes form if there’s a weakness in the abdominal wall, allowing a small portion of the intestine or tissue to protrude. This could happen due to surgical complications, intense activity post-surgery, or an infection affecting the surgery site.

At home, ensure your pup is resting comfortably. Avoid letting her jump or run, as these activities could exacerbate the problem. Keep her incision clean and dry to prevent infection. Monitoring her behavior is also key — if she seems lethargic, loses appetite, or has unusual swelling around the incision, it’s time to pay extra attention.

It’s important to contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice signs of infection (redness, oozing, or foul odor), severe swelling, or any abnormal bulges near the incision that seem to cause distress.

While keeping a close eye is important, nothing beats getting expert advice directly. Please consider booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. We can take a closer look and ensure your furry friend gets the care she needs to heal properly. Looking forward to helping your pup get back to her playful self soon!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 18, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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