Constant licking or attention to the hind end is also a sign of an anal gland problem. BBark: Are c ertain dogs prone to anal gland problems? Chris : Small dogs and toy breeds tend to have more problems with their anal glands.
Dogs with allergies have more issues probably due to chronic inflammation and irritation, as do dogs with persistently soft stool. Can I do it myself? Expressing the anal glands when there is not a problem can potentially lead to inflammation and anal gland sacculitis in an otherwise healthy dog.
If your dog does need to have their anal glands expressed, veterinarians and most groomers offer this service. This is fine but it is always best to do this on the advice of your vet, as there could be something more serious going on. They can also show you the proper way to do this unpleasant task. BBark: What are some other problems dogs can have with their anal glands? Chris: By far the most common anal gland issue is anal gland sacculutis , or inflammation of the glands.
Sacculitis can lead to impacted or infected anal glands. These often result in an anal gland abscess. These abscesses can rupture and require antibiotics and more extensive long term treatment. Dogs can also develop a form of cancer known as anal gland adenocarcinoma. Some people are more comfortable having this done at a veterinary clinic but you can also learn how to do it at your home. Stand or kneel behind your dog while your dog is standing up on all fours and your partner is gently but firmly restraining your dog.
Some anal glands will be firm while others will be more malleable if they are not as full. The hole that the fluid will come from is just inside the anus- so be sure not to block the opening with your index finger. Using your other hand, hold a paper towel in front of the area as the gland can often express with force and squirt backwards.
Normal fluid should be brown in color, with a thin consistency and a strong odor. Thick, chunky or discolored green, yellow, grey fluid is abnormal and indicates that a problem could be present. It takes practice to be able to express the anal glands so do not be discouraged! If you have any questions do not hesitate to ask your veterinarian or a veterinary technician to give you some pointers.
Once you have emptied the left gland, perform the same procedure on the right gland. Sphincter dysfunction and obesity also predispose a pet to anal sac disease.
Certain breeds usually on the small side are also more likely to need monthly, manual expression of their glands: Chihuahuas, Toy and Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Lhasa Apsos, Basset Hounds, and Beagles top the list.
Most pet owners are alerted to the discomfort of impacted glands when their pet drags their rear on the ground, bites at the tail base, excretes the tell-tale liquid stinky at times other than defecation, strains when defecating, or a red, hairless bulge is noted near the area of the anal glands.
When swelling is evident either on physical exam or during a visual inspection of the area, an anal gland abscess is present. Bacterial overgrowth in the gland filled with abnormally copious, thick material causes swelling, pus formation, ultimately rupture and pain.
Abscesses can be soothed with a warm washcloth applied to the area and must be treated with antibiotics by your veterinarian. Surgery in this delicate area can lead to fecal incontinence and should not be done as a first step in managing anal gland disease. Preventative care for your dog includes practicing good hygiene and grooming, awareness of these glands, and knowing the signs of inflammation.
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