Anal Sac Disease
What is it?
All dogs have an anal sac on either side of their anus. Glands lining these sacs produce a foul-smelling, oily substance that empties through tiny ducts near the anus. These sacs likely function as scent glands. When dogs sniff each other’s bottoms, they’re checking for these scents.
Why can they be a problem?
Some dogs often develop impacted anal glands. Causes include soft stools, thick glandular secretions, obesity, and poor muscle tone. In many cases, the exact cause remains unclear. Impacted sacs can lead to infection, causing inflammation, pain, and, in severe cases, abscesses.
How can I tell that there is a problem?
- It can be painful for your pet when sitting down.
- Your pet may lick and bite their bottom.
- Your pet may be scooting (ie rubbing the bottom along the ground).
- Your pet maybe discharging pus.
How can it be treated?
Most anal sac problems respond well to conservative treatment. In many cases, regular manual expression of the anal sacs is all that’s needed. More severe cases may require sac flushing under general anaesthetic or oral antibiotics to treat abscesses. Dogs with anal sac disease often benefit from a higher-fibre diet and weight loss, which can reduce the frequency of flare-ups, though it usually doesn’t eliminate them completely.
For severe or recurring cases—especially those involving repeated abscesses—vets may recommend surgery. This procedure involves removing the anal sacs and their ducts entirely. Because these sacs sit within the anal sphincter muscles, the surgeon must carefully preserve muscle function. While complications are rare, they can include faecal incontinence and ongoing irritation at the surgery site due to scar tissue.
Should my dog have it’s anal sacs removed?
This is a decision best made on a case by case basis with the vet.
If you have any further questions feel free to call or just ask.
