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My active dog has a blockage & hernia. Options before euthanasia?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Yorkshire Terrier | Male | unneutered | 6 years and 5 months old | 14 lbs

The vet today recommended euthanasia for a go block. Our dog has a baseball size hernia on his butt from straining so bad. He said surgery would probably not work and it would be expensive. But he is still trying to eat and drink and running around playing. My question is would it not be worth a shot on trying a enama and stool softener and if he doesn’t get better and starts getting worse then euthanize. the vet said his colon was already stretched too far to fix it self.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on June 18th, 2018

Poor Cooper! That is quite a large bump on his bottom, and it sounds like you are in a tough spot at the moment. Without seeing him in person, I can't say for certain what is best for him but I can give my opinion. Given that he is trying to eat and drinking, and is running around, you can ask your vet if an enema and stool softener may help. The problem is that it would be a temporary fix if it did work, and the hernia will continue to get worse over time. Given his relatively young age, it may be worth speaking with another vet to get a second opinion, such as a specialized veterinary surgeon. Veterinary surgeons have extensive training in surgery, and they may be able to attempt surgery to see if that can fix his hernia and prevent you from making the decision to put him to sleep. I think that would be a worthwhile avenue to pursue for him, and it may give you the option of surgery. Best of luck, I hope this helps!

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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