Perineal Hernia
Aproximate Cost:
$1,300 - $1,600
What It Is
A perineal hernia occurs when the muscles of the pelvic (hip bone) diaphragm weaken or tear, allowing abdominal organs such as fat, bladder, or intestines to protrude into the area beside the rectum. Surgical repair involves repositioning the herniated tissues and suturing or grafting muscle to reinforce the pelvic diaphragm and close the defect.
Why It’s Performed
This procedure is performed to prevent life-threatening complications such as urinary obstruction, constipation, or tissue strangulation. Perineal hernias are most common in older, intact male dogs and can become progressively worse over time. Surgical correction restores normal anatomy, relieves discomfort, and prevents recurrence.
Risks Involved
Possible complications include infection, bleeding, swelling, recurrence of the hernia, or temporary nerve irritation causing difficulty urinating or defecating. In some cases, a temporary urinary catheter is placed after surgery to protect the repair during healing.
Typical Recovery Time
Most pets recover over 3–4 weeks. Activity should be restricted during this time to prevent stress on the surgical site, and a safety cone is used to prevent licking or chewing at the incision. Stitches are removed or dissolve on their own within about two weeks. A stool softener is often prescribed during recovery to prevent straining while defecation.
Our Approach
At Howard County Animal Hospital in Ellicott City, MD, we perform perineal hernia repairs with precision and care. Our goal is to make high-quality surgical care accessible and affordable for local pet owners, and we provide clear, upfront estimates so families can plan for the cost of treatment.
*Requires Consult
*Recommend neutering at time of procedure, add $200
We are committed to offering affordable surgery options with transparent pricing. The cost shown are general estimates only, and a personalized estimate will be provided after your consultation.
We accept all major credit cards, Zelle, and cash. For clients interested in payment plans, we also work with CareCredit.
What’s Included in Our Surgical Costs
Our surgical prices are designed to be as transparent as possible and include:
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All charges typically associated with the day of the procedure
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Preoperative exam the day of the procedure
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Anesthesia and monitoring required throughout the procedure
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All perioperative injectable medications administered before, during and after the procedure to keep your pet safe and comfortable
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IV catheter and fluids to maintain vascular support during your pet’s surgery and recovery
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Detailed discharge instructions for at-home aftercare
What’s NOT Included in Our Surgical Costs
The following items are not included in the surgical costs and may be recommended or required depending on your pet’s individual needs:
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Pre-operative diagnostic workups to determine the underlying problem (e.g., bloodwork, radiographs, ultrasound)
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All diagnostics associated with your pet's procedure would be included (e.g. orthopedic surgery requiring post-operative radiographs, cystotomy with stone analysis).
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Pre-anesthetic blood work
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Optional for healthy pets under 3 years old for routine procedures, but recommended to help ensure the safety of anesthesia.
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Radiographs (X-rays) associated with diagnosing or planning the procedure
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Medications to take home (such as pain meds, antibiotics, sedatives or safety collars).
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If needed: Continued care at a local ER for monitoring and stability, recommended for unstable and sick patients.
We will discuss all recommended or required services with you in advance so you have a complete understanding of your pet’s surgical plan and costs.