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Salivary glands are something we pay little attention to in our dogs. Usually they aren't even given a second thought until they start to present problems. Then we are are all too aware of their existence. Infections of the salivary glands aren't all that common in dogs, but they do occur. Finding a large lump in your dog's neck may send you into a state of panic, but it may prove to be an infection or blockage in the gland, not a tumor. A visit to the vet will put aside all doubt and make a positive diagnosis of salivary gland infection.

Dogs have four pairs of salivary glands. Each gland has a duct, which is a tiny drainage tube that transports saliva to the mouth. Saliva keeps the mouth moist, lubricates food for easier chewing and swallowing and aids in digestion. The zygomatic glands are located just beneath the eye, underneath the cheek bone. Parotid glands are found at the base of the ear canal cartilage, on the side of the face. Just behind the jaw bone sits the mandibular gland. The smallest gland, sublingual, is at the front of the jaw, underneath the tongue. The surface of the tongue is covered with numerous tiny salivary glands as well. This is why dogs pant to cool off. When the tongue is hanging out, the saliva is evaporated, causing a cooling effect.

An infection can develop in any of these glands. Generally, most of us don't routinely exam our dog's mouth, so an infection can go unnoticed. Most of these infections are caused by trauma, such as a bite or puncture wound or chewing on things that splinter, such as bones, wood and sticks. There are symptoms to look for, that should be given further investigation.

* excessive drooling

* bad, sour breath

* difficulty swallowing

* difficulty opening and closing mouth

* swelling in the neck, cheek or under the tongue

* change in eating habits ( eating slowly and selectively, dropping food that is too large and hard or tilting head and chewing on the other side )

The most common salivary gland infection is a sialocele. Infection causes a blockage or rupture in the duct. As a result the saliva escapes into surrounding tissue. A soft fluid filled cyst develops in the tissue. If big enough, the cyst can interfere with breathing and eating. Most commonly these develop in the mandibular and sublingual glands. A needle aspiration will need to be done, to make a diagnosis. Some cysts will clear on their own. Others can be managed by installing drains and periodically emptying the cyst. For some the best treatment is surgical removal of the gland and duct. Your vet will discuss treatment options with you.

Zygomatic salivary gland infection isn't very common, but it does occur. Infection in this gland, just below the eye, causes the gland to become enlarged. The enlarged gland pushes the eye forward. This causes the eye to sit in an abnormal position in the socket. In severe cases the eye can be pushed right out of the socket, with the eyelid behind the eye. Treatment for this is surgical removal of the gland.

Salivary duct stones can be troublesome. These are crystallized minerals in the ducts. The chemicals present in saliva can form a stone that blocks the duct. When saliva can't exit a blocked duct, it backs up into the gland, causing pain and swelling. Mandibular glands are most commonly affected by stones.

It is a good idea to regularly inspect the inside of your dog's mouth for any abnormalities. Minor, easily treatable conditions can be prevented from becoming major health issues. Early intervention and treatment will provide the best possible outcome.

Learn more about this author, Erin Knight.
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