Sound Advice

from the very wise folk at Your Dog:


Scooting can be an indication of inflamed anal sacs, which require immediate veterinary attention. Anal sacs are small glands around a canine anus at the 4 and 8 o'clock positions, which secrete intense-smelling, brownish fatty acids, and when the dog defecates, the sphincter muscles surrounding the anus squeeze the sacs to force the fluid out and onto the stool. Inflammation of the sacs is a common problem in canines, caused by the sacs not emptying properly, and the dog tries to ease the discomfort by scooting—dragging his rear along the ground. Overweight dogs, sedentary dogs, and dogs who do not get enough opportunities to exercise and eliminate may be at an increased risk, and small dogs tend to develop the condition more frequently than large ones. Veterinarians examine the dog's rectum and may attempt to express, or empty, the sacs manually while the dog is conscious, but owners should probably not attempt to express their dog's anal sacs themselves.