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Category: Canine
Anal sac impaction, anal sacculitis, anal sac abscess
Impacted anal sacs, infection of the anal sac, abscessed anal sac
AffectedAnimals:
Although any dog can be affected, smaller breeds such as chihuahuas, dachshunds, and miniature or toy poodles are more commonly seen by veterinarians for anal gland problems. Cats suffer from the disease less commonly.
Overview:
Anal sacs are the reservoirs for the secretions of anal glands which are located on either side of a dog's anus, at approximately four and eight o'clock. These sacs contain liquid secretions from the anal gland, which, in healthy animals, are normally pale yellow-brown to grayish in color. The contents are usually emptied during normal bowel movements, or when a dog is nervous or scared. In most animals, these sacs empty easily. However, some dogs, especially small breed dogs, are not able to empty the sacs properly and become susceptible to anal sac disease.
A dog with anal sac disease may scoot across the ground in an attempt to relieve the sensation of pressure and irritation around its rectum. Dogs with this illness will also chase their tails and bite or lick their rear ends to alleviate the discomfort. |