Have you ever seen your dog dragging his or her bottom along the ground? This peculiar act is known as ‘scooting’ and can indicate your dog has irritated anal glands.

The infamous anal glands are located on either side of your dog’s anus. Each gland holds a small amount of a smelly brown liquid that is released as your pet does a poo. This custom scent is left on the poo and is used as a doggie calling card.

If the glands are not sufficiently expressed they can become impacted and uncomfortable. Dogs that suffer from allergies and itchy skin are also very susceptible to irritated anal glands.

Watch out for:

– Rubbing bottom on the ground especially after defecating
– A foul odour (some describe it as a ‘fishy’ smell)
– Licking or chewing the bottom
– Turning around suddenly
– Soft stools or diarrhoea – the glands can become impacted following a bout of diarrhoea

If you notice any of these signs, the glands need to be manually examined and expressed, so please call us for an appointment.