anal gland infection (dog)

[Mazziestar]

My king Charles Cavalier, Bailey, recently had an anal gland infection and was prescribed amoxylin. This didn't work so he was given a 2 week course of Clynicin,( another antibiotic,) after which he was left with a discharge of yellow sticky mucus which dried rock hard on his bum fur. So off we went again to the vet who prescribed yet another course of Clynicin. That was 2 weeks ago and he still has the discharge only now it has changed from yellow to pale green. Not nice, I know, but he has another appointment at the vet this evening and I'm hoping he isn't given yet another antibiotic course. Has anyone else had any experience of this? It's not the nasty smelling stuff which you usually get from emptying anal sacs, it's just like mucus. Thanks for any ideas..

[JustJenni]

I'd maybe take him to a different vet for a second opinion, just to be on the safe side

[Mazziestar]

Thanks Justjenni, he's got an appointment later on, same surgery, different vet but I was hoping to prompt them with an idea, rather than them just saying "infection" every time! cheers though..

[JustJenni]

Just did a quick search and this came back.
Anal gland abscesses must be lanced by a veterinarian, and antibiotics are usually given to the pet for seven to 14 days. Using warm compresses on the area often helps to relieve some of the pain and reduce swelling. Secondary problems sometimes occur with abscesses, as they may cause scar tissue or other damage that may affect the nerves and muscles in this area. This can cause fecal incontinence, meaning the pet cannot retain its stools.

If an individual pet only has an occasional problem with the gland, they can be dealt with as needed. However, for pets with repeated or chronic problems, surgical removal of the glands is recommended. This procedure is called an "anal sacculectomy".With the removal of these glands all problems associated with these glands are eliminated for the remainder of the pet's life. Although a fairly simple procedure, complications such as fecal incontinence can rarely occur.

Dogs with recurrent anal gland impactions are often placed on a high fiber diet. The high fiber makes the animal's stool more bulky. The stool will put more pressure on the anal glands as it is passed, and hopefully the glands will express themselves when the animal defecates. There are several commercial brands of high fiber dog food available. Animals may also be supplemented with bran or medications such as Metamucil which will increase the bulk of the stool.
I hope that helps.

[Mazziestar]

Thanks everso Justjenni, but he doesn't seem to be in any pain atall, like you would expect from an abscess, he's just his normal happy self! I suppose it could still be an abscess though, (a painfree one!) ...I've looked on the internet for hours but no-one seems to mention mucuc, it's always connected to the anal sac and the emptying of it. He's not ill or anything, that's why it's so strange! thank you again, you're very kind .(p.s he's been on a high fibre diet since the first visit weeks ago!)

[Mazziestar]

Bailey DOES have an infection of the anal sacs and will be having a "flush and pack" procedure on Thursday. Hope that sorts it once and for all....

[malteasers]

Find mine had the same problem but gave them red peanuts,which clears them or sweetcorn Anything that comesout the same way

[Mazziestar]

Thankyou, I'll definitley give that a try, I'll try anything once!