Congenital parainguinal hernia in a heifer

A 2-day-old heifer was examined for a pendulous mass in the left inguinal region. The calf also had moderate brachygnathia. The mass was determined to be a parainguinal hernia, which was surgically repaired. Parainguinal hernias can be confused with other hernias in the inguinal region. Because of lack of previous reports, the hereditary aspects can only be postulated.