|
Problems with the anal sacs
(glands) are more common in smaller breeds of dogs than large
breeds. The purpose of the 2 sacs on each side of the anus is to
produce an odor that identifies the individual dog and marks the
stool to establish territory. It is normally emptied with stools.
Some dogs may have problems emptying the sacs due to stools that are
too soft, poor muscle tone in obese dogs, or blockage of the
openings by thick, dry secretions.
The fluid in the anal sacs is
normally brown, thick, pasty, and foul smelling. The sacs may become
impacted, infected, abscessed, or cancerous. Signs that there is a
problem are pain with sitting or defecating, scooting, and licking
or biting the anal area. Seek veterinary intervention for any of
these signs.
I have owned and bred Bichons for
20 years and have never had a problem with anal sacs, since I
express them each time I bathe my dogs. I contend that groomers
should do the same and may be willing to teach you how to do it. If
there is a problem with the anal sacs you need to discuss this with
your veterinarian who can express the sacs and can teach you how to
do it. If it becomes a serious problem, the sacs may need to be
removed surgically.
Research
for this article includes:
The Merck Veterinary Manual
The 5 Minute Veterinary Consult by Larry Tilley& Francis Smith
Textbook of Medical Physiology by Arthur Guyton & John E. Hall
The Dog Owner’s Home Veterinary Handbook by James Griffen & Liisa
Carlson
|
