Companion Animal Welfare

Dog Welfare and Anal Gland Surgery

Sacculectomy (anal gland removal) is a welfare-positive option for dogs with chronic, recurrent anal gland disease that fails medical management.

Key Facts

Chronic anal gland impaction and infection causes significant ongoing welfare harm
Medical management including expression, diet, and antibiotics fails in some dogs
Sacculectomy resolves the problem permanently in most cases
Surgical complications including faecal incontinence are uncommon with skilled surgeons
Quality of life improvement after successful sacculectomy is substantial

Welfare Considerations

Sacculectomy is an under-utilised welfare improvement for dogs with chronic anal gland disease. Owner reluctance and delay in surgical referral prolongs welfare harm that surgery can resolve.

What You Can Do

Consider surgical referral for dogs with recurrent anal gland problems after medical management fails
Request specialist surgical assessment for sacculectomy where appropriate
Discuss risks and benefits honestly with your veterinary surgeon
Follow post-operative care instructions carefully for best outcomes