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Vaginal prolapse is one of the gruesome health concerns of dogs given that a swollen red mass of tissue that is shaped like a life saver or a donut would protrude through the opening of the vulva. Vaginal prolapse is a condition that commonly occurs in intact females though some dogs are noted to be genetically predisposed to this condition. Vaginal prolapse is a condition common in GSDs, Retrievers, St. Bernard, Boxers and Retrievers.

The swelling of the vaginal mucosa is associated with the stimulation of estrogen. This condition occurs during or after the dog’s estrus cycle. Swollen vaginal mucosa would bulge inside the vulva. The swelling of the vaginal walls will cause the tissues to spill out. As mentioned some breeds are genetically predisposed to this condition. Vaginal prolapse can also result from prolonged straining associated with constipation and difficult urination. The swelling and the eversion of the vaginal walls can be due to a difficult labor. Forcefully separating mating dogs can seriously affect the vaginal mucosa so that it would spill from thevulva into the vulva.

Symptoms of vaginal prolapsed would be easily apparent because the mass of tissue protruding from the dog’s vulva. A dog that has vaginal prolapsed will incessantly lick the vulva. Serious cases of vaginal prolapse will prevent the dog from urinating and from being mated. Vaginal prolapse is an emergency situation for dogs that are about to give birth as the swollen mass will block the passage and prevent the puppies from being born. The puppies may need to be delivered through C-section.

Dog owners can initially treat the pet at home. First aid treatment is aimed to make the pet comfortable and also to prevent self mutilation as the dog would have the inclination to incessantly lick the protruding mass. The mass must be cleaned with saline washes. Anti-inflammatory ointments and lubricating jellies are also necessary to keep the protruding mass from drying. The dog’s bed or lying area must be well padded to prevent the tissues from being injured.

Doggie diapers and Elizabethan collars can be used to prevent the dog from licking the affected area. Vaginal prolapsed is not an emergency situation unless the blockages is preventing the dog from urinating. But if the mass is already creating a blockage, the dog has to be taken to a veterinary facility for professional medical care. Hormonal therapy and a urinary catheter are the usual management procedures for vaginal prolapse. Surgery may be necessary if the protruding tissues are damaged.

Find out more about dog first aid and vaginal prolapse at Sarah’s Dogs.

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