As responsible pet owners, we strive to ensure our furry friends live happy, healthy lives. While most of us are familiar with common health issues in dogs, one condition that is often overlooked or misunderstood is dog hemorrhoids.
Let’s delve into the world of dog hemorrhoids to demystify the condition and provide valuable insights for all pet parents. We'll explore the causes, symptoms, and potential treatments, along with helpful tips on how to prevent and manage this issue.
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Content:
- Can Dogs Get Hemorrhoids
- Does My Dog Have Hemorrhoids
- How Do I Treat My Dog Hemorrhoids
- How Can the Emergency Fund Help with Treatment
- FAQs
- Conclusion
Can Dogs Get Hemorrhoids
According to Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinary Officer for the American Kennel Club research, dogs can’t get hemorrhoids. A dog’s body structure is different from a human’s, with a horizontal gastrointestinal system rather than a vertical one. This reduces the amount of pressure on the area, which in turn massively reduces the chances of hemorrhoids.
Does My Dog Have Hemorrhoids
Instead of getting hemorrhoids, some dogs can suffer from a prolapsed rectum when they strain too hard to poop, but that’s not the only potential cause. It’s best to collect all symptoms or unusual patterns of behavior using whatever tools you have at your disposal, such as Pet Camera monitoring, photos, and/or jotted-down notes.
Anal Gland Problems
Anal glands do not pose problems for the majority of dogs and their pet parents, but with straining, constipation, and prolonged periods of diarrhea, these issues can arise.
With a range of unpleasant symptoms (especially when you have friends or family at your home), such as dragging their behinds along the floor, excessive licking of the area, and a nauseating smell that doesn’t go away.
For some pups, the problem can go away on its own, but for others, medical intervention is necessary. This is most often the case in the case of one-time or regular manual expressions.
Prolapsed Rectum
Sometimes incorrectly known as prolapsed hemorrhoids in dogs, a prolapsed rectum is, quite literally, where the inside part of the rectum comes out of the body. It happens through long or heavy straining when trying to poop and is quite common in puppies and younger dogs. It is also more common with (and can be caused by) intestinal worms and other parasites, severe allergies, and problems with the urinary tract.
Thankfully, it is quite rare, but it does require urgent medical attention.
Hernia
Perineal hernias are more common in intact male dogs and involve the protrusion of pelvic and abdominal contents into the perineal region (around the anus). Experts haven’t yet worked out the root cause(s), but it is believed to be multifactorial, with certain breeds being more prone than others.
These include:
- Welsh Corgis;
- Boxers;
- Boston Terriers.
Perianal Fistulas
Perianal fistulas are painful, inflammatory tracts that develop in the skin around the anus, affecting humans, dogs, and other animals. Commonly seen in middle-aged to older dogs (aged seven years and above), particularly in certain breeds such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Bulldogs, perianal fistulas affect male dogs more often than females.
Polyps and Benign Tumors
An anal polyp in a dog is a small, non-cancerous growth that develops in the tissue lining of the anus or rectum. These polyps are relatively common in dogs and can occur in dogs of any age or breed. While most anal polyps are benign, meaning they are not cancerous, they can still cause discomfort and may require veterinary attention.
There are several types of benign anal tumors, including perianal adenomas, which are influenced by hormonal fluctuations and tend to afflict older, male dogs. Perianal fibroadenomas primarily affect female dogs.
Cancer
While some perianal gland tumors are benign, others can be malignant (cancerous). Malignant perianal gland tumors are more commonly seen in older male dogs. Anal sac adenocarcinoma is a cancer that originates from the anal sacs or anal glands. It is a more serious condition and requires prompt attention.
How Do I Treat My Dog Hemorrhoids
When you notice any lumps or growths around the anus of your dog, it is essential to have it examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible. The vet will perform a physical examination and may conduct additional tests, such as fine-needle aspiration (FNA), biopsy, or imaging studies (X-rays or ultrasound), to determine the nature of the lump.
Diagnosis leads to the appropriate course of treatment. Without a professional diagnosis, whatever you do is simply guessing at the problem and treatment.
Read more: Dog Poop Like Jelly With Blood: What To Do
How Can the Emergency Fund Help with Treatment
If dogs can’t technically get hemorrhoids, it means the hemorrhoid-like abnormalities around your pet’s anus are caused by something else — potentially something life-threatening. That’s exactly the type of situation that the Emergency Fund is for cost coverage and peace of mind during emergency pet situations.
For less than $1 per day, you’ll have access to vets around the clock at the tap of a button, plus emergency coverage of up to $3,000 for up to six pets in your home.
FAQs
Can Older Dogs Get Hemorrhoids?
No, older dogs cannot get hemorrhoids. It is more likely a prolapsed rectum, benign or cancerous mass, or other medical cause.
Can Dogs Die from Hemorrhoids?
No, dogs can’t die from hemorrhoids. (Because they can’t get them.) They can, however, die from cancer or complications as a result of not getting the problem diagnosed and treated. It’s always best to seek advice rather than leave your pup in pain or suffering.
Conclusion
Remember, never attempt to diagnose or treat your dog's condition without consulting a veterinarian. Only a professional can provide proper guidance and treatment for your pet's specific needs. Guessing the right treatment or diagnosis often does more harm than good. One example of this is attempting to cure a potentially cancerous lump with herbal or holistic therapies.
If in doubt, always seek professional advice.