Pet Healthipedia

Many domestic dogs experience irritation and discomfort with their anal sacs. This condition, though relatively simple, can lead the pet and even the pet owner, through misery. In this article, we will try to explore exactly what anal sacs are and how they cause problems for our dogs. We will also look at the symptoms of full anal sacs and also how your veterinarian can help with solutions to this annoying problem.

Let’s begin with the anatomy of an anal sac. Dogs have anal sacs positioned on either side of the anus, just below the surface. These sacs, sometimes called anal glands produce a thick brown liquid, with a very foul odour. When functioning normally, these sacs will express their contents onto the feces with each bowel movement. This secretion on the feces is believed to serve as a means of marking territory. Dogs will commonly use urine and feces to scent mark. A dog will often sniff another dog’s feces, probably with the purpose of identifying who has been in their yard or in their territory.

This unique system for marking territory does not always function properly. Occasionally, the small ducts which drain the anal sacs become clogged with this thick secretion. When this occurs, the anal sac becomes enlarged and uncomfortable. Dogs will attempt to relieve this discomfort by scooting their rear quarters across the ground or by biting and chewing at that area. Scooting has often been misinterpreted to mean a dog has worms. Though this may be true in some cases, more often than not, it is associated with full anal sacs. When you notice these symptoms occurring, especially if they have persisted for several days, it is important to seek medical assistance for your pet.

Your veterinarian or the trained veterinary staff will be able to assist your pet in releasing the accumulated pressure in these sacs. This is most often performed through a quick procedure of gently expressing the sac while performing an internal rectal exam. Expressing these sacs will release the smelly contents of the anal sacs. Though efforts are made to clean and refresh the area, you may elect to bathe your pet after this procedure. Your groomer may also be trained to perform an anal sac expression and may do this routinely during your pet’s grooming.

Occasionally, the anal sacs become infected and form an abscess. In this case, the abscess will need to be lanced and drained. After a thorough evaluation, your veterinarian will determine the best treatment for your dog which sometimes includes a surgical procedure to remove the sacs. If the anal glands are infected and need surgery, Petsecure offers coverage for the surgery under their illness category.

In closing, you may be wondering if there is a way to avoid your pet’s problem with anal sacs. Though no one understands why some dogs are more effected than others, early attention to symptoms will certainly eliminate some of the more serious complications, such as infection.

Those pets that suffer from chronic problems with their anal sacs may benefit from an elective surgery that removes both anal sacs. This delicate operation is not for every dog, but your veterinarian can help you decide if your dog may be a good candidate for this procedure. As you understand this problem a little more clearly, hopefully you will be able to utilize this information for your dog’s health and happiness.