[YEA]  05/21/2009: Christie from Up North, Michigan: "Canned Pumpkin for dog anal gland problems:

My husband and I have been using 100% canned pumpkin on my cocker spaniel as needed for about a year. I found this remedy online when researching her abcessed anal gland problem. We are pretty in tune with her and can notice right away when she is beginning to get a little discomfort in the area, tucking her butt in when she sits, the licking and scooting etc.. we immediately give her a tablespoon of pumpkin every night for a few days and it completely takes care of the problem. Her stools become more formed and compact - not to mention orange from the pumpkin.. But it takes care of the problem for several weeks at least, we'll give it to her whenever we think she might be brewing another swollen gland, or if we notice her having a bout of loose stools. I swear by this and recommend it to every pet owner I know."

07/19/2010: Devlin from Toronto, Canada replies: "

Pumpkin (Really low in sugar) 1 Big can has only 1% sugar. It's a really good source of fiber an option for not only anal gland problems but also for constipation. (As our pets age they go through the same issues a geriatic elderly person would go through). I have a diabetic cat that suffers with AG problems and my other cat suffers with constipation. They are both on a wet food diets with no sugars. Which means High in protein and low in carbs. . (No soy protein, grain, veg, fruits in the food etc etc) Absolutely no dry. Anyway since then the one with constipation issues it has not come back (Adding 1-2 table spoons of pumpkin a day) Keep an eye on their stool it should not be runny if it is cut back you are adding too much. Neither have a problem with eating it as I mix it well into their food, with egg whites which help to strengthen the kindeys, vitamins, and every second day Chicken Gizzards (RAW cut into tiny pieces - if you have a grinder grind. ) (The nutritional value is really high and it's the closest thing I can think of to implement what they would eat in the wild) Store bought for humans. (Really cheap)

As for the anal gland issue if he gets another infection (could be his stool is too hard affecting the glands) it will usually open the same wound from the last infection. The best thing for this is a Syringe and Saline solution that you can get from the pharmacy. Use it like an enema and the salt water will kill any kind of infection! Instantly!!! Do it as often as you can and watch the infection come out. This is only if you notice in an emergency situation (Late at Night) then bring them to the vet for a check up to make sure all the infection is gone. This happened to me before and when I brought him to the vet the vet said there is nothing wrong with him and didn't want to give an antibotic.. Which I was fine with. (A thermomonitor is also your best friend and to know what the normal level of for your dog or cat is valuable)!!! That is all the vet did was take his temperature and looked at where the infection was. (The whole lump dissapeared). You can also use saline for a wound, tooth infection, eye infection any kind of abcess... But you must also bring for a check up to make sure the infection is gone. Good Luck

"

EC: AG = Anal Gland

[YEA]  02/16/2009: Rob from Denver, CO replies: "It's been just over 6 weeks since Cowboy starting using pumpkin for his anal sac and hairball issues and I'm simply blown away by the results.

He's been to the vet twice since his last anal sac abscess (12/20/08)for rechecks and each time his glands have been empty. That alone is simply miraculous. In the past he wasn't able to empty his anal sacs naturally through defecation. Prior to the pumpkin remedy both of those vet visits would have resulted in the vet having to manually express his glands to prevent them from abscessing. The pumpkin appears to have cured him of this horribly painful and long-term condition.

The other issue was the daily or 4-5x per week hairball vomiting. Having to clean the mess I've always monitored the condition very closely. I would mark the calendar each time he would throw up with either a V if he threw up and there were no hairball seen or an HB if I saw a hairball. It was very common for him to throw up between 18-24 days monthly. Since we've begun the pumpkin remedy he's thrown up only one time in February.

This was a chronic condition for most of his life and the vet kept telling me because he was a long haired cat it was basically something we'd have to deal with. She prescribed the petroleum malt products which is supposed to help lubricate the digestive tract and allow the hairball to pass naturally. I may have used 1/4 of a tube, if that, and just threw that stuff away because it didn't work. Also, I never felt comfortable giving my cat a petroleum based product anyway.

I am so elated to have discovered the healing properties of pumpkin. I'm convinced Cowboy will live a much more comfortable life because his digestive system is working efficiently now.

As for the amount I give him it's certainly been a process where I started off using approximately 1/2 tsp mixed in his meal of grain-free canned natural cat food and about 1/2 medallion of raw cat frozen food (nature's variety). We've worked up to 1 tsp with each meal so he's getting about 2 tsp daily now.

He's also getting a small amount of probiotics with his morning meals to help restore some of the good bacteria that died off with the antibiotic therapies for the abscesses in the past.

Thank you Earth Clinic contributors for this valuable natural remedy. I'm eternally grateful!"

05/16/2010: Cattis from Auckland, New Zealand replies: "wow, I love earth clinic...big time...everyone is evolving, I'm so glad doctors and vets are loosing their so called power over us.....My dog is having his first ag experience and I think I now can prevent so much discomfort."

08/29/2011: Lauren from Tallahassee, Fl replies: "It sounds like pumpkin is the best remedy for this issue, but my cat is on urinary s/o food from the vet. Does anybody know anything about giving pumpkin for this issue to cats with dietary restrictions? I don't want it to make her block..."

07/19/2010: Devlin from Toronto, Canada replies: "Yes you can use pumpkin on a cat 1-2 tablespoons for 15 pounds I use it daily with my cats. One is diabetic/with anal gland problems and the other had constipation issues. They will get the same issues as a gerartic human as they age. . . Chicken Gizzards (RAW)(store bought from your butcher or at the grocery store safe as it's sold to humans - (egg whites will help to strengthen the kidneys), ground up and add to the wet food is a great source of nutrition as they age. . Make sure to add pumpkin daily! Good Luck with your furry friend please give his tail a tug for me. :)"

10/12/2008: Kari from Oxnard, Ca replies: "I have not used it on a cat, however we have a cocker spaniel who weights about 20 pounds and we would mix the pumpkin with honey, as per our vet 1/4 cup 2 times a day. Good Luck"

08/20/2010: Susa from Lvn, Ks replies: "So glad to read this- we have the same issue... How heavy is your dog? And did you feed the pumpkin once or twice a day? Thank you!"

[YEA]  07/23/2010: Sarah from Dallas, Tx replies: "This morning my 3-year-old cat dragged poop all over my house. I searched the net on why and found that she might have impacted anal glands. I took her to the vet, and sure enough, they said that was her problem, and they had expressed them. The cost to me was $25.00 and I really can't afford extra expenses right now. Also, I don't ever want poop all over my house again. So I came to Earth Clinic and read how much canned pumpkin had helped other peoples' pets-even cats. I went out right away and there was one can of pumpkin left at the grocery. I mixed it in her wet food (I give her dry, with a couple of spoons of wet) and she ate it happily. I was curious, and put a little half spoon of pumpkin also in her bowl, while she was eating--and she ignored the rest of her food, and licked up all the pumpkin! Next thing, I found her scraping around in her litter box, which had been untouched for the last 24 hours. I believe this has solved the problem, very easily--thank you to Earth Clinic, and to all who post here!"

07/29/2011: Nan from Covington, La replies: "Will sweet potoatoes work as well-my dog likes them and they are included in a lot of dry dog food?"

09/06/2012: Charmaine from Ulster, N Ireland: "Hi folks, im letting you all know about my 4 1/2 yr old german shepherd who was having big problems with anal glands, vet was reluctant to operate as she said her glands where normal and changed her diet with a medication, royal canine is one of the top foods but alas was not getting rid of the problem and I was squeezing her glands for her on a regular basis.

But this time I came across this site and altho I couldnt get a hold of pumpkin flesh I did get the ground pumpkin seed along with coconut oil in a health food shop and started feeding her with the blended mixture of both and hey presto, a week has past, gone is the offensive dark brown smelly liquid that usually was excreted from her glands and she doesnt seem soo down anymore, loves the taste and will look for more although I think maybe I will decrease the amount I was giving her, this bitch is much happier as well as she isnt smelling the home anymore and this way she doesnt have to endure an operation that may change her character, so people dont knock it till you have tried it, your dogs will thankyou for it xxx

ps thankyou very much for the idea, I very much appreciate your help and ideas."

[YEA]  09/07/2010: Gwen from Boulder/Denver, Colorado, Usa: "I've dealt with anal gland issues in cats & dogs. I have a little puppy mill dog & we don't know what she is, but is a dog that looks like a cat & licks herself like a long haired kitty. Pumpkin works great for releasing hair balls. She sometimes pucks them or pass it in her stool. Hence the AG problem I think.

I also add coconut oil & coconut flacks for AG abscesses. Coconut oil & flakes also guards against all kinds of ailments, tumors, arthritis, tooth problems & so forth. Check the coconut oil remedies section on EC for people & what you find will also work for your animals! Remember you are working with natural/pure substances, so it is very hard to over dose. Just get close in measurements which a lot of people will post dosages they use. Using common sense should be enough & because it is a natural substance, the most you might have to deal with would be diarrhea if you use too much. Then lower the dosage.

I wanted to add, if you are dealing with an abscess, there are other things you can do. I will put my pet in a sitz bath of Epsom salts to start drawing the infection out & soaking in the warm water brings them relief. Once again check the abscess section on EC for people. Adding Turmeric to food also is a good idea if it is a chronic problem. I picked up a great tip there about telling the difference between boil, abscess, zit, ingrown hair duct, etc. Just put a cotton ball soaked in peroxide. If a boil, it won't do anything, but abscess, or zit or such, it will bring it to a head & drain the pus or infection in the area. I keep peroxide soak going for about 20-30 minutes. By the time I remove the soaked cotton, it will usually drain the infection immediately, or let you know what you are dealing with! Depending on size & length of infection, I may have to add another 20-30 minute soak before it drains, but it will drain & black colored abscesses will turn back to white/natural color. You could also make solution of peroxide, & Epsom in warm water & keep applying with a cloth, if they will let you because it is very painful for them. I like the idea of sea salt solution injection to kill infection, but I would think you would want swelling down before trying to administer. Ouch! Good luck & Many Blessing to You & Your Little Ones!

P. S. Some cures for people are posted in the animal section not posted for people & vise-a-versa. Use common sense as Mother Earth has given us everything we need to heal!"

01/19/2012: Apryl from Aiken, South Carolina replies: "The pumpkin is working for the most part, I've only seen my dog scoot his bottom a few times. It really has worked, but what I'm wondering is should I continue to give it to him everyday, and I have, but only about a tablespoonful. Do you think this is all right? I welcome the feed back!"

[YEA]  04/27/2008: Suzanne from Southeast, Michigan: "For those of you who have dogs with skin problems, skin allergies, anal gland issues, smelly coats, dirty or greasy feeling coat, smelly breath, please consider a raw diet. This is something that is becoming more well known and is growing in popularity. Commercial dog foods are the cause of so many health problems in pets. My dog had horrible anal gland problems(have you ever smelled anything so horrid?) Instead of having his anal glands extracted over and over, and for other health reasons that need to be addressed, I switched him to a raw diet. My three dogs and one cat have now been eating a raw diet for two years now. Raw meaty bones, some organ meat, and then a couple times a week, a few supplements like fish oil, yogurt, raw egg, kale. It's similar to something called the BARF diet for pets, but a simplified version. Two books by Tom Lonsdale, Raw Meaty Bones, and Work Wonders, are a good place to start reading about the diet. There are web sites and yahoogroups as well. There is a formula for percentage of meat/bones/organ, so it's important to read about the diet before jumping into it. It should also be a very gradual transition. My dogs teeth are super clean and white (even my 9yr old lab) because they're eating like their ancestors did; ripping the meat off bones, chomping on bone (raw bones only -- cooked bones are a choking hazard). Since starting this diet, besides being overall healthier pets, other benefits: clear anal glands because the poop is a bit harder, healthier skin and coat, no dog smell or doggy breath, much less poop because no fillers, etc., as in dry food I never have to clean up poop in my yard! Natural diet means natural poop; in a few days, it turns white and crumbles away. Also, my dogs are happier. They love the raw diet. I had one very stubborn cat who I just couldn't get to transition to a raw diet, so I fed her Evo, the more natural dry food. That did help her allergies, but I still would rather she went raw."

03/01/2009: Kim from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada replies: "My golden's anal sac issues were solved many moons ago by switching to a raw food diet. HOWEVER, my rott mix has been having anal sac issues for about a year now, regardless of diet. We've tried herbal fixes, grain free kibbles, raw foods (several varieties) and have actually settled on a less than ideal kibble. Still corn/wheat/soy/byproduct/chemical free, but my guys generally eat grain free human grade stuff. We're in the process of switching to morning feedings of this kibble and then evening feedings of Orijen again with added pumpkin, coconut and bran. Her issues are severe, and she required expression weekly, with copious amounts of fluid. Quite frankly, I've never seen anything like it. Cross your fingers for us!"

04/16/2009: Linda from Burlington, Ontario replies: "Hi Kim: How is you doggy doing with his anal sac problems. I am going through the same thing with my choc lab. I have to get them emptied every two weeks. He is on a high fiber diet, coconut and coconut oil I HAVE TRIED BRAN CARROT AND PUMPKIN. i AM THINKING ABOUT ADDING ENZYMES TO HIS DIET. hAVE YOU EVER TRIED ENZYMES. hAS YOU DOG EVER BEEN ON HIGH DOSES OF ANTI BIOTICS. I THINK THIS HAS CAUSED ALL OUR PROBLEMS BUT THAT IS JUST MY UNEDUCATED OPINION. i WOULD LOVE TO HEAR IF YOU ARE HAVING ANY SUCCESS."

06/18/2010: Cynthia from Chennai, India replies: "Oh gosh, Linda, I didn't think of the antibiotics causing the anal sac situation, but you are probably right. And to think I gave him another course of them out of desperation.

For your dog, since he's already on a raw meat diet, I would suggest that you see if you can find a classical homeopathic vet, or just a homeopath. Lots of homeopaths will take dogs as patients. You could even try an online homeopath since we have Skype these days. My advice: only deal with homeopaths that deal with the whole constitution of the dog. You can tell if he/she is a good homeopath because they will ask all sorts of questions about the character of your dog. Pray it all works out..."

01/29/2012: Liz from Grand Island, NY replies: "I am new to this blog. I was just reading your situations with your dogs. I am also having an anal gland problem with my little guy. He is a 3 year old Beagle mix. I have been having to express his anal glands nearly every 2-3 weeks, sometimes weekly. This has been going on for the past 4 months. I started him on canned pumkin and that seemed to be working, but lately we're back to having his glands expressed weekly. My vet has talked to me about surgery. I really hate to go tht way if there are other alternatives to try. I would really love any and all help. Thanks."

10/12/2012: Linda from Toronto, Canada: "I have a 7yr old Bengal cat that has had 4 anal gland erruptions. Each time she needs to be put out , drained and stitched up. My vet wants to remove that anal gland. I would like to try to express them myself but she's very strong willed and I don't think she'll let me. Her diet is canned and dry and she also gets an acidophilus. Are there any other suggestions for a cat with this problem? I have 2 Himalayan cats as well, but they don't have any issues. Thanks, Linda"

02/02/2012: Diana from Houston, Tx replies: "Steve you need to read all the posts before yours. One in particular just a few posts above yours describes a detailed couple of posts about how a gentleman was able to help his cat using 100 percent canned pumpkin to clear his cat's absess. Much of the stuff that comes out is a pussie type liquid. You should help your cat soon with this remedy and you and your cat will both be happy you did. Read all posts related to people curing their "cats" using canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling)."

02/11/2011: Kathy from Las Vegas, Nv replies: "My dog had his glands expressed and it caused major pain and a huge lump on his behind. He was very lethargic and licked his bottom constantly. I took advice from another post and put him in the tub with 2-3 inches of warm water and added 1/2 cup of hydrogen peroxide and 1 cup of epsom and just used a glass to pour it over his bottom. I did this 5 different times the first day and 3-4 times the next day then once a day for another few days. I also fed him 1/2 cup of pumpkin and he felt better in a day or two."

11/10/2010: Debbie from Brighton, Uk replies: "Hi, I would look into adding FOOD GRADE Diatomaceous Earth to her diet, everyday. It has many health benefits as well as a natural wormer and flea control. Regards, Debbie."

01/28/2011: Renae from Denver, Co replies: "Dogs should not be on a strict meat only diet. Fiber and veggies are just as important to animals as they are to us. You may hear arguements saying "dogs are carnivores and not omivores", but look at the average life span of Wild dogs. Wolves live up to about 6 years if they are lucky. A meat only diet can lead to digestive problems, swollen anal glands, infections and certain diseases. I would start giving your dog dog food with veggies and fiber already added or adding some to the meat you give him now. Also a dog multi vitamin with fiber will help."

03/20/2011: Lisette from Salem, Nh replies: "Where do you buy a can of pumpkin. I been looking to find some at the markert its only seasonal Thank-you."

03/26/2011: Sue from Woodinville, Wa replies: "My little 10 lb Pom mix continuously deals with her left anal gland swelling up and the last time, it was able to correct itself. I kept her in a homemade "diaper" sort of and it helped to prevent the gland from rupturing. This time however, she wiggled her way out of the diaper and by the time I noticed it, the gland had ruptured. She'd been licking it so I cleaned it and applied an antibotic spray to it, then made her a new "diaper" that allowed it to have air and dry, while maintaining it from bacteria and such. It's made a scab, but she's having loose stools right now so I was wondering if the pumpkin would firm up her stools again, or what could I use? Anyway to best help her rupture or just leave it be since it's scabbed over on it's own?"

04/13/2011: Jackie from Warren, Mi replies: "You can find pumpkin out of season, you just have too look at a few supermarkets, its usually by the baking products, not in the vegetable aisle."

05/05/2011: Terry from Glendale, Az replies: "Hi Lisette, I happened to read your post on 2 subjects. I have 6 Shih Tzus, used to have 8. My Laverne had iIntervertabal DIsc Disease. I research on everything. Please go to wwwpawhealer.com, you fill out a questionaire and Holly makes up chinese herbs for your dog or any animal.

If you go to the webpage and older blog you will see my reply and how within less then a month she was jumping off the sofa. She is now going to be 14 years old. some other picturees of a few Shih tzus are also on the same letter I e-mailed her. Laverne also takes herbs for her dry eye.

I now have herbs for my Sammy who will be 15 on Christmas day for his carteracts. I read on line about chinese herbs on this web page.

I lost Amos last year I research and he had swollen glads which I goggle if they can get cancer from this. He had lymphoma. His white blood cells were low and he stopped eating.. I found out from a retired vet he told me I was correct with finding this out. He Passed on peacefully.

I did get herbs and a cancer site some items. But he had this for awhile. I found out Holly from Pawhealer has items for cancer in pets..

Also you can get Organic pumpkin in the can in some supermarkets, I get it at Sprouts or Whole Foods her in Arizona.. When it it Pumpkin season I cook the pumpkin..

I give my dogs Shih Tzus 1/2 teapoon in food for digestive system also go for anal on female dogs. My one had a smeel and had to have the glads supr4esses it has been 11 months and she is fine.

I also give them Organic apple cider vinegar 1/2 teapoon in food for their immune system.. Been doing this for 6 years with pumpkin or more. Go to _____s.com web page on dogs and humans... I tooke a tablespoon a day in a glass of water for immune system and when I had Valley Fever in my Joints. Excellent to lose weigh.. research the webpage.

Does anyone know what I can do for my one Shih Tzu Shirley Laverne's sister. When she pees as she is getting older will be 14 years young and this has been for a few years. When she pee's it dries tackey on her back end and legs. I have a natural spray THE STUFF which helps a little . Any answer would be greatly appreciated.

Also if your dog or cat has tarter as my dogs did on teeth and 2 with bad breath you can use this it is natural and excellent.

TROPICLEAN FOR FRESH BREATH. It is a gel which you put on the tarter and they lick it. Use for 30 days then 2 times a week.. It is 2 week and this is remarkable. Holistic and natural.. I also use PETRODEXULTRA advanced Veterinary Cleaning Paste. Use 14 days then 2 times a week if necessary.

I am using this for 14 days only. Then just continuing with gel. You can get this at Ryan's pet supplies on line or goggle as other vendors have it.

Hope this helps you and everyone.. Best of health to all the pets.

Terry"

[YEA]  08/08/2011: Lesley from Neenah, Wi replies: "I have had full coats on Lhasas and shih but when older clipped.... Now, always clip. Esp cleaner for rear end and vaginal area.

When in hurry, I use vinegar in a spray bottle on any tinkle smell areas of feet or legs-- when older they sometimes step in tinkle. I then wash with water, but not necessary, I guess.... always thought vinegar might irritate delicate skin so careful near vaginal area.

Used sprayed vinegar in feet that had what seemed to be yeast/fungal on toe nails... Didnt stop licking totally, but also didnt hurt. Schriener's seemed to work much better

On fanny use Tucks pads to clean behind (fast, at door), then wash if needed. You could use for tinkle too.

I have ALWAYS wiped after going out--mine all wait for this. had one Lhasa who would lift leg to get wiped and now have shih who does this--so cute."

08/09/2011: Janine from North Bethesda, Md, Usa replies: "Hi everyone, My 1.5 year old 16 lb pom has a ruptured anal gland abscess. He's had it for 6 days now. I didn't notice the swollen gland until it was ruptured (I didn't know any better, now I do). It continues to release puss, not as much as before, but it's still there.

So the question is, other than Antiseptic 4 times a day, clipping his hair in the back and washing his behind area every day, what else can I do for now to heal the abscess, I've been following the procedure I listed above for 5 days now? Also, how long should it take for him to heal?

I have read a lot on this forum as to how to prevent this in the future, I have used pumpkin on him before when he had loose bloody stools once and it worked like a charm (took a few days though). I'll be restarting him on the pumpkin.

Anyone know if boiled casava/yuka (loaded with fiber) would be a good option too?"