Shih Tzu - groin hernia

Question
We had chosen a puppy from a breeder, solely as a companion pet.  She called today (2 weeks before we are to pick up the puppy)to tell us that she found a groin hernia, which I am assuming so far that this is the same thing as a Inguinal hernia.  She has offered a puppy from an upcoming litter or to go through with the sale but at a lower price.  How serious is this?  If surgery is required, how major is it?  And lastly, is it common practice to offer to reduce the price?

Answer
You are correct this is an Inguinal hernia.  And this shows you have come across a very reputable breeder if she has called to inform you in advance and has offered you these options.  You can call a vet in your area to ask about the surgery cost and procedure and then decide if the reduction in price will cover the cost of the surgery or if you would rather wait for another puppy.  Depending on the size and severity of the hernia, some will close on their own by the time the puppy is 6 months of age (about the time you would schedule the spay/neuter) and your puppy will not require repair of the hernia.  Be sure your vet and breeder are familiar with hernias associated with shih tzu these types of hernias are common and unless they are severe we usually hold off on unnecessary surgery. But we definitely do not breed animals that continually produce offspring of this nature because it is a genetic defect and can lead to having puppies with cleft pallets or other complications.  Hope this helps.