Priority: High

Overview

• Needs a veterinary appointment within 12 hours.
• If it is after hours, closely monitor your dog.
• If your dog’s condition worsens, seek emergency care.
• If symptoms change, repeat and revise the Symptom Checker.

Symptom Considerations

• This often happens when there are issues with your dog's anal glands.
• Anal glands are 2 small glands found at approximately 4 and 8 o'clock just inside your dog's anus.
• Some questions to prepare for:
  • Has this happened before?
  • Have you noticed any wounds or swelling?
  • When did the behavior start?
  • Any other symptoms today?
• Your veterinarian may:
  • Examine the rectum, anal glands, and feces
  • Check a stool sample for parasites
• Your dog may require:
  • Sedation for the procedure
  • Anal gland expression or anal gland flushing
  • Oral medications you will administer at home (pain relievers, antibiotics)

---