Veterinary doctors are frequently presented with patients whose chief symptom is scratching & itching. There is a lengthy list of causes for itching. One of the first that is suspected is canine atrophy or skin allergy.

Allergies can be caused by pollens, grass, molds, foods, etc... Also it is not uncommon that a pet develops an allergy to something even if they have been exposed to it all their life.

A preliminary diagnosis can be obtained by a simple history analysis. To further pinpoint what your pet is allergic to your vet would need to draw blood and run an allergen panel. This tests the known allergens in your area.

The next step is to formulate a medical management program to suit your pets needs. The use of steroids is a common for short-term outbreaks. But it is not recommended for chronic cases because of the damage that is caused to the liver.

Scooting, licking and smelling could be signs of an anal gland ailment.
The anal sacs are located on each side of the anus, just under the skin.
They open to the outside by tiny passageways or ducts. Glands within the anal sacs produce a dark, foul-smelling substance. The sacs normally empty as the animal has a bowel movement. Their purpose is unknown although one theory suggests that they were once used to mark territory. Today, however your pet can do well without them.

Diseases of the anal sacs fall into 3 categories:

1. Impaction: The anal sac fluid is abnormally thick and cannot escape.

2. Infection: Bacteria produce a yellow or bloody pus. Infection may also exist in other areas, such as the eyes, ears, tonsils and/or skin.

3. Abscessation: As a result of infection, a hot, tender swelling near the anus may rupture and discharge pus and blood.

Signs of anal sac disease include "scooting" (dragging the anus on the floor), excessive licking under the tail, tenderness near the tail or anus, and/or bloody or sticky drainage from the anal area.

Important Points in Treatment

1. Treatment for anal sac disease may include the following:

* Manual expression (squeezing) of the sac contents.(temporary relief)

* Flushing the sacs and instilling antibiotics into them.(longer remedy to
symptoms)

* Surgical drainage or removal of the sacs.(This treatment is usually performed if the patient has a chronic history or the sacs have ruptured.
Healing can be slow though because of the location.)

2. Medication must be given as directed.

3. Diet: A higher fiber diet can in some cases help slow impaction but check with your vet for your specific pet's nutritional needs.

Notify your Veterinarian if Any of the Following Occur:

* Your pet is reluctant to eat.

* Your pet is depressed or listless.

* There is a sudden swelling or drainage near the anus.

* Your pet constantly licks its anus.

* Your pet vomits.

Remember, squeezing the anal gland regularly will help minimize build-up and irritation but some material will undoubtably still remain in the sacs causing the process to begin again. If you find your pet is always building up matter then you should talk to your vet about one of the other treatments for a longer remedy to the symptoms.