Who develops anal sac inflammation (anal sacculitis)?
Anal sac inflammation is common in small dogs, such as Dachshunds, Poodles and Chihuahuas, perhaps because the ducts draining their anal sacs are very tiny and easily occluded with inflammation. It also occurs in Retrievers and Spaniels more often than in many other breeds. Anal sac inflammation is common in the following circumstances: Pets eating low-fiber diets designed to create low-residue stools because the sacs are not emptied by the stool when they defecate. Pets with food allergies because allergies cause the bottom to itch, and the pets scoot, driving in bacteria that cause inflammation. Pets that require regular clipping because clipper burn can cause pain, which leads to scooting and inflammation. Pets whose anal sacs are emptied frequently, but not completely. Constipated pets with small, hard stools, which occurs when pets are not eating. Pets that are not getting enough exercise to stimulate bowel movements. Dehydrated pets, such as senior pets with kidney disease, who b
