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Study reveals dog breeds most at risk of anal sac disorders
Bracycephalic breeds such as Shih-Tzu are 2.6 times more likely to develop an anal sack disorder compared to long-faced dogs.

Findings provide guidance for more targeted work on risk factors and treatments.

The frequency and treatment of anal sac disorders in dogs have been explored in a first-of-its-kind study led by the Royal Veterinary College (RVC).

Published in the journal Veterinary Record, the VetCompass™ study aims to correct the lack of evidence-based information on the epidemiology and clinical management of non-neoplastic anal sac disorders (ASD). In particular, it focuses on identifying dog breeds with an increased or reduced risk of this often-neglected syndrome.

It reveals that the breeds at most risk of an anal sac disorder are the Cavalier King Charles spaniel, King Charles spaniel and cockapoo. Conversely, dogs at reduced risk are larger breeds, such as the boxer, German shepherd and lurcher. 

Interestingly, the study found that brachycephalic breeds such as Shih-Tzu are 2.6 times more likely to develop an anal sac disorder compared to long-faced dogs, such as Border collies. Dachshund-types and Poodle-types also both had increased risk of anal sac disease. 

Researchers hope their results will fill knowledge gaps and guide research into anal sac disorders, helping breeders, owners and veterinary practice alike.

Study author Dr Dan O’Neill, a senior lecturer in companion animal epidemiology at the RVC, said: “During two decades in first opinion practice, anal sac problems in dogs were a routine daily presentation for me. However, when I searched the literature to find evidence on the best way to treat these dogs or even on which breeds were at most risk, there was almost no information available.

"It seemed back then that only problems that were severe enough to be referred to universities in large numbers were researched. As a result, vets in first opinion practice generally had to work out for themselves what seemed to be the best treatment in these cases. It is refreshing now to see research on common problems in dogs under first opinion veterinary care being reported. Owners and vets need this evidence vitally.”

In the study, researchers identified 2,372 anal sac disorder cases from a population of 104,212 dogs attending VetCompass™ practices during 2013. Other key findings include: 

  • anal sac disorders affected 4.4 per cent of dogs
  • the risks of anal sac problems were higher in older dogs
  • insured dogs were 1.53 times more likely to have anal sac problems diagnosed than uninsured dogs
  • 20 per cent of dogs with anal sac problems were prescribed antimicrobials, while 12 per cent were given pain relief
  • anal sacs were surgically removed in under one per cent of affected dogs.
  • dietary change was recommended in 8.18 per cent of cases, with weight loss recommended in 1.14 per cent of cases. 

Study co-author Dr Anke Hendricks, associate professor of veterinary dermatology at the RVC, commented: “Our understanding and management of anal sac disorders has not fundamentally changed since the 1970s, and there is still a lot we do not understand.

"By confirming the significance of anal sac problems in primary care practice in the modern dog population, this study now provides guidance for more targeted work on types of anal sac disorders, risk factors and best treatment practice.”

Large graphic (C) RVC's VetCompass programme

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Free bloat webinar planned for dog owners

News Story 1
 The Kennel Club is inviting dog owners to attend a free webinar on gastric dilation-volvulus syndrome, also known as bloat.

Part of its health webinar series, the session will take place from 7pm to 8pm on 12 November. It will explore what scientific research has revealed about causes, symptoms, breed susceptibilities, diagnostic approaches, and treatment options, as well as looking at what future research could uncover.

The talk will be hosted by Mark Dunning, professor of small animal internal medicine at the University of Nottingham, and will include a 30-minute Q&A session.

Places can be booked here

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News Shorts
FIVP to represent independent practices at London Vet Show

The Federation of Independent Veterinary Practices (FIVP) will be at stand (S05) at this year's London Vet Show.

The not-for-profit organisation will be explaining how its expertise and resources can help independent practices to thrive in a competitive industry. It will also share how it has been representing independent practices in the ongoing CMA investigation.

On Thursday, FIVP member Steve Carter will be available to discuss how veterinary surgeons and nurses can pursue practice ownership.

FIVP will also be offering independent practices three months of free membership if they sign up at the stand.

Rita Dingwall, FIVP business development manager, said: "It's a wonderful opportunity to discuss our representation in the CMA enquiry and connect with like-minded individuals who share our passion for independent practice."