WHAT ARE ANAL SACS?
Anal sacs are storages of anal gland secretion located on either side of a dog’s anus. They contain liquid secretion produced by the anal glands which is pale yellow-brown or grey colour in healthy animals. The sac contents normally come out during every bowel movement or when the dog is scared or nervous. Most breeds don’t have problems with emptying the sacs, but that is not the case with small breed dogs that are not able to empty them properly and because of that they often show signs of disease.
Anal sacs are placed on either side of a dog’s anus, at approximately four and eight o’clock.
WHY DOES THE DISEASE OCCUR?
Although the real cause of the disease is unknown, there are some factors that can contribute to the disease development. Here we would point out excessive anal gland production, soft feces, poor muscle tone and obesity. The disease most often affects small dog breeds, especially Chihuahuas and poodles.
THREE STAGES OF THE DISEASE
There are three stages of anal sac disease. The first stage is the one during which the content accumulates and thickens. The accumulated thick content makes emptying difficult. The help of an experienced veterinarian is needed at this stage. After entering the anus with his fingers, the veterinarian can squeeze out the content. If the sacs aren’t emptied on time, often bacteria causing inflammation and anal sacculitis start to thrive. The third and most severe form is abscess formation. Abscess is recognized by reddish-brown discharge coming out of the enlarged and painful sacs. If not cured on time it can cause the damage of epithelium which can make the condition much worse. This condition can be successfully cured only by surgical treatment.
CLINICAL SIGNS
The most common signs of anal sac disease include scooting across the floor, licking the anus and area around the anus, straining during defecating, biting the tail, discharge around the anal area and change in behaviour.
DISEASE TREATMENT IN DIAVET
In suspected disease we thoroughly examine our patients and empty the sacs professionally in a way that doesn’t cause great pain. In suspected inflammation we upgrade the treatment by prescribing antibiotics. We use antibiogram when deciding on antibiotic type. In the case of abscess, we perform a minor surgical treatment according to the highest global veterinary standards.
HOW TO PREVENT THE PROBLEM?
Regular check-up and sac expression is essential in animals that have had the problem before. High fiber diet is recommended, especially in obese animals.
Translated by: Kristina Deskar