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Umbilical Hernia Repair

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Umbilical Hernia Repair in Columbus, OH

Umbilical Hernia Repair for Pets in Columbus, OH

At Northwest Animal Hospital, our experienced veterinary team provides safe, effective umbilical hernia repair in Columbus to ensure your pet's comfort and long-term health.

Understanding Umbilical Hernia Repair

An umbilical hernia occurs when tissue pushes through an opening near the belly button, leaving a soft bulge that can affect puppies, kittens, and some adult pets.

Umbilical hernia repair is a surgical procedure that closes this opening to prevent complications like pain, organ entrapment, or infection.

Prompt veterinary attention is crucial because small hernias can become larger or trapped over time.

Repairing an umbilical hernia not only removes the visible lump but also protects your pet's well-being for the future.

At Northwest Animal Hospital, our veterinarians in Columbus use the safest techniques and our Fear Free approach to make every procedure as comfortable as possible.

By trusting our team with your pet's umbilical hernia repair, you're taking an important step toward a healthier, happier life for your companion.

What to Expect During Umbilical Hernia Repair

When your pet visits Northwest Animal Hospital for umbilical hernia repair in Columbus, you can expect a caring, professional experience from your first call to the last post-op checkup.

Our goal is to guide you through every step and keep your pet safe and comfortable throughout the process.

Pre-Surgical Evaluation

Our veterinary team will begin with a thorough physical examination to confirm the presence and size of the hernia.

We may recommend bloodwork or imaging to check your pet’s overall health and ensure there are no unexpected risks.

This step is essential for tailoring anesthesia and surgical plans to your pet's needs, helping Dr. Hollenbach and our team provide the best care possible.

Safe Sedation and Pain Management

Every pet undergoing umbilical hernia surgery at Northwest Animal Hospital benefits from individualized sedation and pain control strategies.

We use advanced monitoring equipment to track vital signs during surgery.

Fear Free handling and the use of warm blankets or gentle touch help keep your pet calm from start to finish.

Surgical Hernia Repair

Our veterinarians make a small incision above the hernia, carefully returning displaced tissue to its correct location.

Using sterile techniques, we close the hernia with strong, absorbable sutures, eliminating the defect and minimizing the risk of recurrence.

The procedure typically takes under an hour, and your pet is closely supervised throughout.

Recovery and Aftercare

Your pet will wake up in a quiet, warm area and receive continued pain management as needed.

Before discharge, we explain home care instructions, signs to monitor for, and set up a follow-up visit to ensure optimal healing.

Our team remains available to answer your questions after surgery so your pet stays as comfortable as possible.

Why Umbilical Hernia Repair is Important for Your Pet

Timely umbilical hernia repair can protect your pet from avoidable health problems and improve their overall quality of life.

Untreated hernias may lead to trapped organs, restricted blood flow, infections, or chronic discomfort that affects your pet’s daily routine.

Our Columbus veterinary team encourages hernia repair early, especially for young pets, as the procedure is simple and recovery tends to be fast.

Prevents Serious Complications

Repairing the hernia eliminates the threat of life-threatening complications like bowel entrapment, strangulation, or tissue damage.

Early surgical intervention is the best defense against sudden emergencies caused by untreated hernias.

Supports Active, Comfortable Living

Once repaired, most pets quickly return to their normal activities without pain or restrictions.

Your pet can walk, play, and interact freely, free from the risks of a growing or infected hernia.

Reduces Infection and Recurrence Risk

Professional surgical closure of the hernia site greatly reduces the chance of infection or hernia recurrence.

This means your pet enjoys a healthier, more secure future after a one-time, straightforward procedure.

Signs Your Pet May Need Umbilical Hernia Repair

Identifying a hernia early makes treatment easier and reduces risks for your pet.

  • Soft bulge or swelling near the belly button
  • Lump that increases in size when your pet cries, barks, or stands
  • Discomfort or sensitivity when touching the area
  • Redness, swelling, or warmth around the bulge
  • Vomiting or loss of appetite (in severe cases)

If you spot these symptoms or suspect your pet has a hernia, call Northwest Animal Hospital for prompt evaluation.

Timely care can prevent complications, a veterinary professional can advise you on the safest next steps for your companion.

How Often Should Your Pet Receive Umbilical Hernia Repair?

Umbilical hernia repair is generally a one-time procedure that resolves the issue permanently for most pets.

Some hernias in very young animals may shrink on their own, but surgery is often advised to prevent risks as your pet grows.

The ideal timing typically occurs when your pet is spayed or neutered, but your veterinarian may recommend sooner repair if the hernia is large, painful, or worsening.

Our Northwest Animal Hospital team will assess your pet’s age, size, health, and hernia type to recommend the safest surgical plan.

Regular checkups allow us to monitor for hernias and address them before complications develop.

Practice Highlights

Choosing Northwest Animal Hospital for veterinary umbilical hernia repair in Columbus means your pet is in caring, qualified hands.

  • Fear Free Certified Practice: Our entire approach is designed to reduce anxiety and stress for both pets and owners.
  • Personalized, One-on-One Attention: You see the same experienced veterinarian, Dr. Hollenbach, for every surgical consult and follow-up.
  • Cat Friendly: Dedicated cat exam rooms and handling techniques make our hospital extra welcoming for feline patients.
  • Urgent and Same-Day Appointments: Walk-in hours and responsive scheduling support your pet’s needs quickly.
  • Modern Surgery and Monitoring Equipment: We use the latest technology for every procedure, maximizing both safety and success.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is umbilical hernia repair safe for pets?

Yes, umbilical hernia repair is considered a safe, routine surgery at Northwest Animal Hospital in Columbus. Our team uses careful anesthesia monitoring and advanced pain management to protect your pet before, during, and after surgery. How much does umbilical hernia repair cost, and how long does it take? Costs depend on your pet’s size, the complexity of the hernia, and any other procedures performed simultaneously. We encourage you to call our office for a personalized estimate and to discuss expected surgery duration. Do I need to prepare my pet for surgery, or is there special aftercare? Our veterinarians will provide you with pre-surgery fasting and medication instructions. After surgery, you’ll receive clear guidance on incision care, activity restrictions, and pain management to keep your pet comfortable. What types of hernias can be repaired, and which pets are most at risk? In addition to umbilical hernias, our team can address many types of simple soft tissue hernias in cats and dogs. Pets can be born with hernias or develop them after injury, making early veterinary assessment important. How do I schedule umbilical hernia repair or check availability? Call during clinic hours or use our online scheduler to request an appointment. Our Columbus location at 1071 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, OH 43220 offers walk-in and urgent appointments; reach us at (614) 451-4772 for availability.

Schedule Your Pet's Umbilical Hernia Repair Appointment Today

If your pet needs umbilical hernia repair in Columbus, trust the compassionate team at Northwest Animal Hospital to provide gentle, expert surgical care.

Call us at (614) 451-4772 or visit 1071 Old Henderson Road, Columbus, OH 43220.

We’re conveniently located across from FedEx, making visits easy for families throughout Columbus and surrounding communities.

Reach out today with any questions or to schedule your pet’s procedure, our commitment is to support your companion’s health and your peace of mind.