11/14/2025
"Mando" is a very handsome Doberman who was referred to Dr. Brinkley for repair of a primary perineal hernia. He is also a Von Willebrand Factor (vWF) patient.
(vWD) is an inherited bleeding disorder that affects dogs. It is caused by a deficiency or dysfunction of von Willebrand factor (vWF), a protein that helps blood platelets stick together and form clots. vWD is common in certain dog breeds, including: Doberman Pinschers, Shetland Sheepdogs, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.
For this particular reason, Mando was scheduled for surgery on a day we had fresh frozen plasma on hand. Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) can be used before surgery for dogs with Von Willebrand's disease (VWD) to increase von Willebrand factor (vWF) levels and reduce bleeding risk.
Primary perineal hernias are a weakening of the pelvic diaphragm that allows organs to bulge near the a**s, primarily affecting older, intact male dogs. Symptoms include straining to defecate, a swelling near the a**s, and constipation, though other issues like urinary problems can occur if the bladder is affected. Treatment typically involves surgical repair combined with castration to reduce prostate size and recurrence. 🐾
