Our sheltie (a male) has what appears similar to a large udder developing in his lower abdomen. Visits to the vet indicate it is filled with a water like fluid with fat deposits; it continues to expand in size. It is starting to interefere with his ability to walk and stand up due to the weight. Any ideas on hiow to treat this or what it is?
Optional Information: Age: >12; Male; Breed: Shetland Sheepdog Already Tried: Vets just say let it go until it becomes problematic. It is getting increasingly difficult for him to get up and to walk very far; and in the past few days he has begun to eat significantly less if at all.
I'd say you are at 'problematic'!
Did the vet suggest this might be a hernia? The location is where you often see inguinal hernias. You can read about hernias in dogs here
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2090&aid=442
Those can be repaired if he is healthy enough to handle surgery.
You may find his current problems are not stemming from the lump you see but could be due to arthritis in the legs, a heart issue, a liver or kidney problem etc. He might be eating less as he isn't passing stool due to the pressure on the abdomen.
With senior dogs you ofen end up with multiple health issues instead of just one same as often happens with senior people.
I'd plan another vet check up for him with these new symptoms and see what can be done to make him feel better.
Hope this helps you!
Experience: 30+ yrs dog home vet care & nursing, rescue, behavior&training, responsible show breeding, genetics
Vet visit indicates it is likely a Lyme disease related infection.
Interesting! I'm so glad you got him back to the vet and I hope he is feeling better soon!
Thanks for the above accept!