SECTION VII 



DISEASES OF THE RECTUM AND ANUS 



THIS class of ailments includes hemorrhoids, 

 prolapsus recti, prolapsus ani, fistula in ani, 

 atresia ani, and obstruction of the anal glands. 



Hemorrhoids 



A dilated and varicose condition of the veins 

 around and just within the anus is known as hemor- 

 rhoids. This troublesome condition is frequently 

 seen in old, overfed, and fat dogs. 



Cause. — Constipation, overfeeding, debility, im- 

 paired portal circulation, old age, and want of exer- 

 cise are the major causes of hemorrhoids in dogs. 



Symptoms. — Pain and irritation during defecation 

 and pruritus, the animal continually licking the 

 parts and rubbing them on the ground, are evi- 

 dences of hemorrhoids. The anal surface appears 

 moist and swollen and the feces are frequently 

 streaked with blood. Constipation is often present 

 both as a symptom and as a cause, the patient, 

 owing to the pain experienced, delaying the defeca- 

 tion as long as possible. 



Treatment. — This consists in attention to the state 

 of the bowels, mild laxatives such as .cascara, 

 phenolphthalein, or olive oil being given to eflfect, 

 and local treatment to the affected parts. The anal 

 region should be kept clean and dressed with 

 anodynes and astringents, such as adrenalin oint- 

 ment, hazelin ointment, bensinol ointment or the 

 Unguentum Gallae et Opii (B. P.). In internal 

 piles suppositories of any of the above may be 



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