Canine Anal Gland Problems
Dogs have two anal glands, also known as sacs, one on each side of the anus. These glands produce an individualized odor, allowing each dog to use its stool to mark its territory. This is the reason dogs greet one another by sniffing each other's rears. Canine anal glands are similar to scent glands of a skunk, although the skunk uses these glands as a means of protection. Normally, the anal glands are emptied by the pressure of a bowel movement, but they may also empty when the anal sphincters contract involuntarily because of emotional distress.
Anal Gland Impaction
At times the anal sacs may become impacted, swollen and sore from the over-accumulation of anal secretions. Impactions are more likely to occur in small breeds or in overweight dogs. Signs that the dog's anal glands are impacted are scooting, and licking or biting at the rear. Anal gland impactions can occur for any of the following reasons:
- Stools that are abnormally soft or small
- Openings that are blocked by dried secretions
- Insufficient pressure applied by the anal sphincters
The treatment for anal gland impaction in manual expression of the secretions by the owner of the dog or the veterinarian. For some dogs, this requires regular human intervention. When they are impacted, the glands can be palpated as small, hard lumps in the perineal region. They can be expressed with the gentle pressure of a surgically gloved thumb and forefinger. The secretions will have a strong unpleasant odor and appear as dark brown or gray liquid. After the glands are expressed, the area should be well-cleansed.
Anal Gland Infection
If the discharge from the anal glands is unusually thick, yellow or bloody, this indicates an anal gland infection. Treatment for infection of the anal glands is a weekly emptying of the sacs by the veterinarian and the application of antibiotic medication into the sacs. In some cases, when the problem is recurrent or severe, the glands must be surgically removed, preferably between infections.
Anal Gland Abscess
Making sure that the anal sacs are emptied at regular intervals is important for the dog's health since anal gland infection can lead to an anal gland abscess and result in serious systemic illness. If the discharge of the glands is yellow or bloody, there is an infection, known as sacculitis, present and a veterinarian should be consulted. If an anal abscess develops, the sacs become painfully swollen, turning red and then dark purple. Dogs with an anal abscess also develop a fever.
Once an anal abscess is present, the glands can no longer be emptied. They will either rupture or have to be lanced surgically by the veterinarian. In either case, medical care is required. The cavity will have to be flushed and cleansed, usually twice a day, and a topical antiseptic, typically Betadine, will need to be applied. Warm compresses may be used for healing and comfort. Often, an oral antibiotic will also be prescribed.