Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 4/23/2009

Question
I have a dog with anal gland issues and they need to be emptied about every month. I currently feed him Eukanuba Lamb and Rice dog food. I want to know if there are vegetables or fruits I can add to give him a bit more fiber? I have heard alot about canned pumpkin, is this a good and safe option? What vegetables and fruits are safe for dogs and which ones should be avoided? Thanks.

Answer
Lois -

Pumpkin is indeed high in fiber and may help your dog's anal sacs. I usually do not recommend human food for animals without first giving the animal a physical exam and therefore I cannot offer other fruits and vegetables that might be useful for your dog.  Ask your veterinarian which foods he/she recommends for your pet.  

Often, medication infused into the anal sacs can help to quiet overactive anal sacs.  In my experience, I find that infusing medication into the anal sacs (while the animal is under anesthesia, of course) is an effective way to curtail the need for frequent anal sac expressions and helps to prevent anal sac infections which become a complication of frequent anal sac expressions.


Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM