We begin this week’s “ RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful canine named Arlo.
My mom said…….. “Arlo can be very focused and serious when training”,
But I said to my mom……….. “I want to play and be goofy.” Hee Hee.
Welcome to Doggie Dialogue:
Scooting the bum across the carpet, grass, or floor, is a common dog behavior.
Scooting can be a sign of tapeworms, intestinal parasites, anal sac disease, an impacted anal gland, or even an irritation from a grooming session. Some dogs can develop a sensitivity or reaction to soaps or perfumes used during a grooming session.
Dogs have two small anal sacs on either side on their rear end.
The anal sacs contain a fishy smelling liquid that is released
naturally when your dog poops.
This liquid may be a biomarker that leaves
a “poop print” for other dogs to smell.
If the anal sacs are not working properly, the
liquid can build up. The glands in the sacs may
get inflamed hindering its release. When the sacs are full or not emptying
properly, this can become painful and even get infected. When the anal sacs
become clogged and/or full, they will need to be expressed.
We recommend to have your vet do this procedure. Your vet will ensure that the scooting isn’t due to infection, parasites, or allergies.
Veterinarian recommended treatment options may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and/or warm compresses.
Some vets may even encourage you to increase your dog’s fiber and/or add canned pumpkin to their diet to help encourage a bulky poop.
Smaller dogs and toy dogs, seem to develop anal-sac problems more frequently.
Breeds such as, Bassett Hounds, Beagles, and Cocker Spaniels can also develop anal-sac disease often as well.
If your dog only “scoots” once or twice, across the floor, it may just be an itch, or dirty bottom and no need to be concerned. However, if the scooting continues on a regular bases please seek the advice of your vet to rule out any medical concerns.
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