14/02/2020
A***E KLIERE / A**L GLANDS
Dogs have a**l sacs on either side of the a**s that fill with fluid produced by the a**l glands. This fluid is a scent marker that’s useful for communicating with other dogs, such as to delineate territory.
A**l sac disorders involve impaction of a**l sac fluid, inflammation of the sac(s) and abscess of the sac(s), which can lead to a dog having a ruptured a**l gland. Impaction is the most common disorder of the a**l glands. Small breed dogs like Toy Poodles, Shih Tzus, Chihuahuas, Pugs are more predisposed than other breeds.
SYMPTOMS AND TYPES
Dog is scooting
Straining to defecate
Itching/Scratching
Tail chasing
Discharge from the a**l glands
Licking and biting around the a**s
CAUSES
Conformation (body shape)
Allergies
Chronically soft f***s
Recent bout of diarrhea
Constipation
Excessive glandular secretions
Poor a**l muscle tone
A**l gland tumor
DIAGNOSIS
Your veterinarian will conduct a complete physical exam on your dog, taking into account the background history of symptoms and possible incidents that might have precipitated this condition.
You will need to give a thorough history of your dog's health, onset of symptoms and possible incidents that might have led to this condition.
The a**l sacs are considered enlarged if they are easily palpable during the physical exam. The normal clear or pale yellow-brown secretion will have turned to a thick, pasty brown fluid if the a**l glands have been impacted. Abscessed a**l sacs will have a red-brown exudate, and show signs of swelling and redness. The a**l sacs may also be clearly ruptured.
Your veterinarian will try to gently empty your dog’s a**l sacs. Based on the consistency and color of the material, and the difficultly involved in expressing it, your veterinarian will choose a treatment.
