Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

The anal sacs can be emptied by
squeezing the skin surrounding the sacs
between the thumb and forefinger.
THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM • 291
When impacted, the anal sacs are best
emptied with a finger in the anal canal
and a thumb on the outside.
malodor poses a problem. Begin by putting on a disposable latex or plastic surgical
glove. Raise the dog’s tail and locate the openings as shown in the figure
on this page. If they’re full, the anal sacs can be felt as small, firm lumps in the
perianal area at the five and seven o’clock positions.
Grasp the skin surrounding the sacs between your thumb and forefinger
and squeeze. When an anal sac is impacted (blocked), it usually is best to
empty the sacs with a finger in the anal canal and a thumb on the outside.
As the sac empties, you may smell a strong odor. Wipe the secretions with
a damp cloth or gently hose the dog’s rectal area. Normal secretions are liquid
and brown. If the discharge is yellow, bloody, or puslike, the sac is infected
and you should seek veterinary attention.
Sacculitis (Anal Sac Infection)
Anal sac infection complicates impaction. Infection is recognized by a painful
swelling on one or both sides of the anus. The anal secretions are thin, yellowish,
or blood-tinged. The dog will scoot, lick, and bite at his rear.
Treatment: Begin by expressing the anal sacs. Repeat in one to two weeks.
For recurrent infection, empty the sacs weekly. After emptying, an antibiotic
is instilled into the sacs. This procedure should be done by your veterinarian.
Dogs with recurrent anal sac infections should have their anal sacs surgically
removed. This is best done during a period between infections.
Anal Sac Abscess
Abscess is recognized by fever and the signs of anal sac infection. The
swelling, usually on one side, is red at first, then later turns a deep purple.