Symptoms & Treatment of Dog Anal Gland Inflammation

Mediumsized dogs typically have anal sacs with a diameter of about 1 centimeter. These anal sacs are connected to the rectum through a tube that measures between 2 to 4 centimeters in length, opening at the junction of the anal mucosa and skin. When the dog's tail is lifted, the opening of the anal sacs is easily visible, protruding from the anus. The glands within these sacs secrete a greasy, granularlike substance that is usually gray or brown in color.

When the excretory ducts become blocked or infected, or if the dog has a tendency towards seborrhea, the glands can accumulate secretions, leading to swelling or abscesses, which can trigger the onset of the condition.

Initial symptoms in affected dogs may include restlessness, a decrease in appetite, or complete refusal to eat. They may continuously lick their anal area or perform "scooting" motions. Some dogs may have difficulty defecating, showing signs of straining and only being able to pass small, hard stools.

Over time, these symptoms can lead to secondary issues such as rectal prolapse, swollen and red anal areas that protrude outward, and the discharge of brown or grayishbrown fluids. In some cases, dogs may have a large number of white, pinpointlike spots around the anal area. When pressure is applied, a substantial amount of grayishbrown fluid can be expressed from the anal gland ducts. If an infection occurs, the anal glands can develop abscesses, which, if left untreated, can rupture and form fistulas.

Treatment involves:

1. Anal Sac Irrigation: For simple blockages, wear a rubber glove, apply some Vaseline, and gently insert your index finger into the anus. With your thumb outside the anus, press lightly on the swollen area to express the contents. For abscessed anal sacs, first empty the pus, then insert a catheter into the anal sac and flush with a 0.1% potassium permanganate solution or a 0.2% metronidazole solution. After cleaning, inject 40,000 international units of gentamicin or apply erythromycin ointment. Repeat this treatment every 3 to 4 days.

2. Inflammation Reduction: Administer intramuscular injections of amoxicillin or cefazolin, one to two times daily, for 4 to 5 days. Alternatively, you can inject 1 to 2 ml of gentamicin, tobramycin, or lincomycin (choose one) along with 2 to 5 mg of dexamethasone into the acupoint, once daily, for 3 to 4 days.