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Perianal fistula

Species: Dog
Breed: Mixed
Age: 5-8 years
Dear Dr Marie,

My baby doggie, Mushka, has developed small pimple-sized boils near his anus. He's had them for a few days now.

I took him to the vet who said it's probably due to anal gland infection. The vet expressed his anal glands (which had never been expressed before).

This seems - to me - to be either an insect bite or some skin allergy. He had full blood work + stool test done yesterday and everything came out normal.

I'm attaching a pic so you can see for yourself.

http://s1146.photobucket.com/user/exgenis/media/pimples-near-dog-anus_zpsd7779815.jpg.html

He seems to be in discomfort so I want these pimples to clear out soon. What do I need to do?


Online vet, Dr. Marie

Dr. Marie replied:

Thank you for sending me this photo:

pimples on dog's anus

These lesions really look sore. They are very unlikely to be due to an insect bite or an allergy. I can't make a diagnosis without actually examining Mushka but I would be worried that these are something called perianal fistulae or anal furunculosis. This is a very serious condition which is usually an immune mediated disease. It's most common in German Shepherd dogs but it can happen in any breed.

Sometimes we will treat these with antibiotics, but if it is truly a perianal fistula then your dog may need immunosuppressant medications such as steroids or a cream called tacrolimus. Many dogs need this medication for the rest of their life.

It may be worthwhile asking your vet if perianal fistula could be the cause of these.

I do hope things clear up.

Dr. Marie


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Disclaimer: Although Dr. Marie is a qualified veterinarian, the information found on this site is not meant to replace the advice of your own veterinarian. AskAVetQuestion.com and Dr. Marie do not accept any responsibility for any loss, damage, injury, death, or disease which may arise from reliance on information contained on this site. Do not use information found on this site for diagnosing or treating your pet. Anything you read here is for information only.

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Dr. MarieDr. Marie is a veterinarian who practices in a busy animal hospital in Ottawa, Ontario. She created Ask A Vet Question as a resource for good, accurate veterinary advice online. Dr. Marie treats dogs, cats, hamsters, guinea pigs, and rats. She has been a vet since 1999.

Is an online vet visit just as good as a trip to your veterinarian? No! But, many times, asking an online veterinarian a question can help save you money. While Dr. Marie can't officially diagnose your pet or prescribe medications, she can often advise you on whether a vet visit is necessary. You can also ask Dr. Marie for a second opinion on your pet's condition.