This week’s segment features Laila the 16-year-old miniature schnauzer!! 🐾🐕Laila has come to us several times over the last few years for issues with her anal glands becoming impacted or infected. Anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are two small glands located just inside a dog’s anus that produce a strong-smelling fluid used for scent marking and communication. Normally, these glands empty on their own when a dog has a bowel movement, as firm stool passing through the rectum naturally expresses the sacs. In some dogs, however, the glands do not empty properly, leading to a buildup of thickened material—this is called anal gland impaction.
When the glands become impacted, dogs may show signs such as scooting, excessive licking of the rear, discomfort, or a foul odor. If left untreated, the material within the glands can become infected, leading to swelling, pain, and sometimes fever. In more severe cases, the gland can abscess, meaning it fills with pus and may rupture through the skin, creating an open, draining wound near the anus. This can be very painful and requires prompt medical attention. Treatment depends on the severity of the issue. Mild impactions can often be relieved with manual expression, but infected or abscessed glands require more advanced care. At Emerson Animal Hospital, we may perform a procedure under sedation to thoroughly flush the affected anal gland, removing infected debris and relieving pressure. The gland is then infused (impregnated) with medication—typically a combination of antibiotics and anti-inflammatories—to treat infection and promote healing from within. In some cases, oral medications and pain control are also necessary. Addressing these issues early can prevent more serious complications and keep your dog comfortable and healthy. Thankfully with routine maintenance and monitoring Laila has been doing well with her anal gland issues!! 🐕🐾