Scooting, licking beneath the tail, and discomfort while sitting may indicate anal sac disease. These signs can also come from allergies, parasites, skin irritation, or other conditions, so an examination is the best place to start.
Southwest Pet Hospital in Springdale, Arkansas, provides evaluation and treatment to help identify the cause and keep your dog comfortable.
What are anal sacs
Anal sacs, commonly called anal glands, are small pouches on either side of the anus. They contain strongly scented secretions that often empty during defecation. When secretions do not drain normally, a sac may become impacted, inflamed, infected, or abscessed.
Not every dog with impaction develops an infection, and these conditions do not always follow a fixed sequence.
Signs of a problem
Contact us if your dog repeatedly scoots, licks or chews beneath the tail, seems painful when sitting, strains to defecate, or has swelling beside the anus. Blood, pus, or an open draining wound needs prompt attention.
Anal sac fluid normally has a strong odor. A fishy smell alone does not establish infection. The examination and appearance of the sacs and their contents guide diagnosis.
Why problems recur
Stool consistency, excess body weight, anatomy, and skin inflammation may contribute to anal sac problems. Some dogs with allergic skin disease have recurrent inflammation. Your veterinarian may investigate diarrhea, parasites, allergies, or other underlying conditions when problems persist.
A firm swelling or persistent abnormality also warrants evaluation for causes other than routine impaction, including a mass.
How veterinarians evaluate anal sac disease
Diagnosis may include a physical examination, rectal examination, assessment of the anal sacs and their contents, and skin evaluation. Fecal testing or other diagnostic tests may be recommended according to the findings.
A very painful dog may need sedation for a safe, thorough examination and treatment.
Treatment options
Uncomplicated impaction may improve after gentle expression by a trained professional. Inflamed or infected sacs may require flushing and medication placed within the sacs. Pain relief is provided when indicated.
Systemic antibiotics are used when appropriate for the severity and extent of infection; they are not automatically required for every anal sac problem. An abscess may need drainage, flushing, and additional treatment. Your veterinarian will recommend follow-up to confirm healing.
Surgical removal may be considered for severe, recurrent disease that does not respond adequately to medical care. Benefits and risks, including possible problems with continence, should be discussed before surgery.
Supporting anal sac health
Maintaining an appropriate weight, addressing diarrhea, and managing underlying allergies may help reduce recurrence. Some dogs benefit from a carefully selected dietary fiber adjustment. Diet and supplements should be individualized rather than assumed to prevent every recurrence.
Most dogs do not need routine anal sac expression when they have no symptoms. Unnecessary or forceful expression can cause irritation. Do not attempt home expression unless your veterinarian has recommended it and taught you an appropriate technique.
Frequently asked questions
Does scooting always mean anal gland trouble? No. Allergies, parasites, skin problems, and other conditions can cause similar behavior.
How often should the sacs be expressed? Most dogs do not need a standing schedule. Dogs with recurrent disease need a plan based on examinations and symptoms.
What if a sac ruptures? A draining wound may remain painful or infected. Arrange prompt veterinary treatment even if pressure appears to have been relieved.
Can diet help? It may help selected dogs, particularly when stool consistency or food allergy contributes. It does not replace treatment of an active infection or abscess.
When to call
Call Southwest Pet Hospital for persistent scooting or discomfort. Seek prompt care for marked swelling, bloody or pus-like discharge, an open wound, difficulty defecating, or illness such as fever, lethargy, and loss of appetite.
Contact Southwest Pet Hospital
1202 Henryetta Street, Springdale, AR 72762
479-751-5601 | southwestpethospital.com