Hernia] *47 [Hernia 



shows itself by the side, or sometimes both sides, 

 of the anus. 



Treatment : The only treatment to effect a 

 radical cure is an operation, but in the case of 

 umbilical hernia, so long as it remains soft and 

 small, say not larger than a hazel nut or walnut, 

 according to the size of the patient, it may be 

 left alone, as it does not cause any inconvenience 

 even to a bitch required for breeding purposes. 

 Inguinal hernia, which is only seen in bitches, 

 and nearly always on the left side, does not 

 cause any inconvenience so long as it remains 

 small ; but this form of hernia has a tendency 

 to increase in size, and when such is the 

 case, more especially if it is intended to breed 

 from the bitch, it is advisable to submit to 

 an operation, and, provided it is performed 

 under aseptic conditions, is unattended with 

 danger. 



In cases of old bitches suffering from this form 

 of hernia, when from some reason an operation is 

 objected to, care must be taken to avoid consti- 

 pation. When this is done, seldom any harm 

 occurs unless the hernia is very large, and 

 becomes hard and painful, caused by some 

 obstruction of the bowel in the hernical sac. 

 If this happens, attention is required, and means 

 taken to reduce the hardness and swelling. This 

 is best done by placing the bitch, if a small one, 

 upon a person's knees. She should be put on her 

 back, with the head downwards, and then the 

 swelling should be carefully manipulated and 

 massaged until it becomes soft and can be 



