Understanding Perianal Fistulas in German Shepherd Dogs

Perianal fistulas in German Shepherd dogs are a common health issue that can cause significant discomfort and pain for these beautiful animals. According to studies, 1 in 5 German Shepherd dogs will develop a perianal fistula at some point in their lives.

A perianal fistula is an abnormal connection or tunnel that forms between the anus and the skin around it, leading to chronic diarrhea, constipation, and painful bowel movements.

The exact cause of perianal fistulas in German Shepherds is still not fully understood, but research suggests that genetics, diet, and environmental factors may all play a role.

Symptoms of a perianal fistula can include straining during bowel movements, bloody stools, and a foul odor from the affected area.

German Shepherds are more prone to perianal fistulas due to a combination of factors.

Their broad tails that sit low and close to their bodies can trap fecal matter near the folds of the anus, creating an ideal environment for infections to develop.

German Shepherds have more apocrine sweat glands than many other breeds, which can secrete a smelly, oily substance that promotes infections in the anal area.

Middle-aged, male dogs (ages 5-8) are more commonly affected by perianal fistulas than any other group.

Poor air circulation around the anal region has long been proposed as a major contributory factor to the development of perianal fistulas.

Some families of German Shepherd dogs appear particularly prone to perianal fistulas, suggesting a genetic component to the condition.

Approximately 80% of cases occur in German Shepherds, highlighting the breed's susceptibility to this condition.

German Shepherds are also prone to skin allergies, which may contribute to the development of perianal fistulas.

Diagnosis of perianal fistula in German Shepherd dogs typically relies on clinical presentation and physical examination alone, as they often exhibit specific signs such as perianal pruritus and draining tracts.

A thorough rectal examination is essential to identify any associated abnormalities in the region, and probing the draining tracts with a cotton-tipped applicator can help determine the depth of the fistula.

German Shepherd dogs may require sedation before a full rectal examination due to the pain and discomfort associated with the disease.

Treatment of perianal fistula requires timely diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy to prevent complications such as anal stricture and large, deep fissures.

Platelet-rich plasma monotherapy has been used as a treatment option, resulting in complete remission in one dog after one year.

Surgery is another treatment option, but it carries a risk of complications such as wound dehiscence, flatulence, and fecal incontinence.

A thorough rectal examination is essential to identify any associated abnormalities in the region, as some patients may require sedation due to the pain and discomfort of the disease.

Probing the draining tracts with a cotton-tipped applicator or similar tool can help determine the depth of the draining tracts and monitor clinical improvement.

Measuring the depths of these tracts can be an effective way to monitor clinical improvement, depending on disease severity and duration.

For patients with no abnormal findings internally or severe fibrosis, rectal examination can reveal thickening of the perianal region with the possibility of anal strictures.

Thorough palpation and expression of the anal sacs should be performed to rule out an anal gland abscess and determine whether the perianal fistula(s) communicate with the anal sac.

In some cases, the draining tracts can be flushed with a tomcat catheter and sterile saline to determine whether they communicate with each other or involve the anal sac.

If the patient is a German shepherd, a perianal fistula is often diagnosed on the basis of clinical presentation and physical examination alone.

Taking a biopsy sample of the draining tract can help detect other causes, such as cancer, allergies, or foreign body, and obtain a definitive diagnosis, although it's rarely performed due to potential complications.

Treatment and management of perianal fistulas requires timely diagnosis and institution of appropriate therapy, as lack of or unsuccessful treatment can lead to formation of anal stricture and large, deep fissures.

Surgery has been used to treat perianal fistulas since the 1940s, but it's not always successful, with a high incidence of recurrence and surgical complications such as wound dehiscence and fecal incontinence.

Platelet-rich plasma monotherapy has shown promise, with one dog experiencing complete remission and no recurrence after 1 year.

Immunosuppressive therapy has also been used, but its effectiveness can plateau, leading to the need for surgery.

Secondary infections can be a complication of perianal fistulas, and it's essential to address them promptly with medication.

Antibiotics, either systemic or topical, can be used to treat secondary infections, with chlorhexidine being a common topical option.

Antiseptic baths can be beneficial for routine hygienic care, and taking them 2 to 3 times a week, or even daily if the lesions are severe, can help prevent further infection.

Additional reading: Ear Infection in German Shepherd Dogs