If we look at our dog's anus reddened or swollenwe can think that he is suffering from hemorrhoids. However, except in very rare cases, dogs do not get hemorrhoids.
In this article on our site we are going to explain what disorders are confused with hemorrhoids in dogs and, of course, how we can avoid and treat them. It is important to go to the vet before the appearance of the first symptom because, otherwise, the condition will worsen and it will be more difficult to solve it.
Do dogs get hemorrhoids?
No, in general, we cannot talk about hemorrhoids in dogs. Hemorrhoids, also known as "piles", are swollen veins in the rectum or anus. Visually they would be like varicose veins. They are caused by straining during defecation, increased pressure during pregnancy or arise without a specific reason being identified. They appear in humans favored by anatomical conformation.
On the other hand, the body of dogs is completely different. Let's say your layout is horizontal, while ours is vertical. Therefore, dogs will not get hemorrhoids.
The only case in which we could know what hemorrhoids are like in dogs would be in certain tumors that grow in the anorectal area and manage to modify, increase pressure, inflame and prolapse the entire anal conformationThese tumors would appear next to the anus and are more likely to cause these hemorrhoids if we let them progress untreated or if other factors such as constipation or the presence of parasites are present.
My dog has a swollen anus
Therefore, if our dog shows swelling, redness, discomfort or straining when defecating, we should not think, as a first option, that it is hemorrhoids in dogs. On the contrary, the most usual thing will be that we are facing problems in the anal glands or rectal prolapses, which we will talk about in the following sections.
Furthermore, if what we observe is the irritated anus in puppies we must take into account the possible presence of intestinal parasites. These worms, if found in high numbers, can cause diarrhea. The increase in the frequency of defecation irritates the anus, as does the itching caused by some of these parasites, which will lead the dog to drag his bottom on the ground or lick himself, trying to alleviate the discomfort.
Follow-up of the deworming schedule can prevent this disorder. Whenever we adopt a puppy we should go to the vet to check it out and guide us in the most appropriate deworming protocol. Of course, any symptom of discomfort in the area, whether in puppies or adult dogs, is reason for veterinary consultation
Dog Anal Gland Problems
The anal glands are small sacs that are located on both sides of the anus. Its function is to produce a liquid that helps to lubricate the faeces, goes outside with them, and gives the dog its individual scent. Sometimes, this secretion is very thick, the feces do not compress the glands enough, or some other circumstance occurs that prevents this liquid from coming out, accumulating in the glands and giving rise to the following problems that can confused with hemorrhoids in dogs:
- Impaction: the fluid cannot leave the glands and they remain full. The vet will have to empty them manually. If the dog suffers from this problem frequently, the emptying will have to be periodic. A diet rich in fiber is recommended.
- Infection or sacculitis: the impaction of the glands can be complicated by an infection, as it is a "dirty" area due to the high presence of bacteria, which will cause painful inflammation. In that case, in addition to emptying, a topical antibiotic and disinfection will be needed.
- Abscess: In this case, an infection also occurs, with fever and swelling that appears red and purple. Pus accumulates and, if it opens to the outside, forms anal fistulas in dogs, responsible for a foul-smelling secretion that requires surgery. In this state, emptying the glands does not solve the problem. Abscesses that remain closed should be opened for cleaning and will require disinfection and oral antibiotics. If the dog frequently experiences these episodes, removal of the glands is recommended.
Rectal prolapse in dogs
It is very easy to think of hemorrhoids in dogs when we observe that a reddened or pinkish mass comes out of their anus. It is actually a piece of rectum protruding through the anus, called rectal prolapse, which is caused by overexertion when defecating, severe constipation or, on the contrary, diarrhea, obstructions in the area, childbirth, etc.
Although there are degrees of severity, prolapse is a veterinary emergency since this exposed tissue runs the risk of becoming necrotic, that is, the exposed cells will die. In this case, it will have to be surgically removed and the intestine repaired.
Although there is no necrosis, if the prolapse is complete it is reduced with suture. In the mildest cases, the veterinarian will look for the cause of the prolapse since, to solve it, it may be enough just to treat it. Meanwhile, products are administered to soften the stool and a proper diet.
How to treat a dog's hemorrhoids?
Although we will not speak, in general, of hemorrhoids in dogs, the situations of prolapse or infection that we have described and that may seem like piles to us, should receive immediate veterinary assistancesince, otherwise, the condition will worsen.
Therefore, although it is a well-known drug that can be found in many homes, in no case should we replace a visit to the vet with the application of hemoal ointment for dogs.
As we have seen, the vet can give us topical treatment. Any of the canine creams for "hemorrhoids" must be prescribed by this professional because, to choose the most appropriate product, the situation must be assessed. For example, if we put cream on a prolapse, not only will we not solve it but, by not treating it, the tissue will end up becoming necrotic. If there is an infection and we apply an ointment instead of an antibiotic, the condition can progress to the fistula. Therefore, we insist on the need to go to the vet.
As prevention, it is important that the dog follows an adequate diet, also taking into account proper hydration. The anal glands must be checked and dewormed regularly to avoid internal parasites. With all these measures we prevent, as far as possible, the appearance of the most common factors that can lead to badly called "hemorrhoids" in dogs
