SNP Pet and Vet Release Week of May 12

Sad Sacs

Does your pet scoot their rear across the ground?  Anal sacs (or glands) are located behind the anus, in the eight and four o-clock position.  An odorous, liquid material accumulates in these sacs.  This material offers a way of communication through scent (why dogs sniff each other’s butts and what skunks spray).  Animals empty their anal sacs naturally during defecation, and occasionally during times of distress.  Unfortunately, many domesticated pets have lost the ability to empty regularly or completely.  When our companions are unable to empty these glands, they normally lick or bite at their rear, scoot or sometimes chase their tail.  At Northstar Animal Care and Pet Boarding, we will relieve your pet’s discomfort through anal sac emptying and can even teach you how to perform at home. 

Ignored, full anal sacs can become impacted and/or infected.  Sometimes secondary factors like dietary allergies can contribute to chronic anal sac disease.  If your companion experiences chronic anal sac dysfunction or infection, a surgical procedure called anal sacculectomy can be performed to permanently remove the glands.  Visit us at 1600 W. 5^th Ave. or contact one of our team members at Northstar Animal Care and Pet Boarding by calling 614.488.4121.

P.S.  The material found in anal sacs is a liquid and typically tan to yellow.  Impacted anal glands usually produce a paste or chunky substance that is brown or gray. The presence of blood or pus indicates infection and will require more than a routine emptying.