Dog Hemorrhoids
How to Treat Hemorrhoids in Dogs
Hemorrhoids in dogs are a condition that is much like hemorrhoids in humans, though dogs tend to have fewer problems with this. In reality, dog hemorrhoids are fairly rare. It is more common for a dog to have rectal tumors or some other type of disease than it is for them to have hemorrhoids.
Just like when people have this condition, hemorrhoids in dogs can develop into a serious problem if left untreated. In addition, hemorrhoids can be miserable for the dog. The treatment a dog receives for hemorrhoids varies according to the severity of the condition, and the dog.
Hemorrhoids in dogs are a condition where the blood vessels in the rectum have become enlarged; they will bulge out of the rectum when the blood flow is increased. If these hemorrhoids rupture when the dog has a bowel movement, the result will be bloody stool and pain.
Although the cause of hemorrhoids in dogs isn’t well understood, the common belief is that muscle tone and diet play a major role when dogs develop this condition. Studies have also indicated that genetics, as well as obesity may be a contributing factors for dogs developing hemorrhoids. With this condition being so rare, not a lot of research has been conducted so there just isn’t too much known about dog hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids in dogs comes with some specific symptoms; one of the first symptoms will be bloody stool, but the dog will actually experience some itching and discomfort before the bloody stool is noticeable. With external hemorrhoids the itching will be severe and the dog might display behavior such as dragging the torso along the ground; the dog is doing this to try and get relief from the itching. If an infection develops, the dog will be very sensitive to touch in the area around the tail.
Due to the fact that hemorrhoids in dogs are rare, and more likely than not the condition may be a tumor, it is extremely important to get a diagnosis from a vet. Only your dog’s veterinarian will be able to give a proper diagnosis to rule out a tumor or other serious condition.
Treatment for hemorrhoids in dogs may consist of suppositories and creams, though these treatments don’t work as well with dogs as they do humans. For this reason, if your dog does have hemorrhoids he may require surgery to correct the problem, though most vets prefer this to be the last option. Along with treatment for the hemorrhoids, a vet may also prescribe antibiotics so that the dog does not develop an infection or abscess in the anal area. Though hemorrhoids is not a life threatening condition, if left they can cause some permanent damage to the dog’s health.
The best treatment for hemorrhoids in dogs is prevention, and the best way to prevent hemorrhoids is a proper diet and exercise. A high fiber diet is thought to be one way to prevent hemorrhoids, but like people, if the dog is too sedentary this can contribute to the development of this condition. Although there are ways you can treat your dog’s hemorrhoids at home, before attempting to do this it is important to get a diagnosis from a vet so that you know that you are dealing with hemorrhoids and not another type of condition that could be life threatening.
Though hemorrhoids in dogs are not serious, the condition is rare and should always be diagnosed by a trained professional before you begin hemorrhoid treatment for your pet.