I’m really hoping someone here might have some advice or experience to share. My sweet pup, Max, had a left anal sacculectomy a few weeks ago because he was having constant issues with his anal glands. Everything seemed to go well with the surgery, and we followed all the vet’s instructions for post-op care. He was healing nicely at first, but now, he’s started scooting a lot again, and I’m really worried. I’m not sure if it’s just normal healing discomfort, if maybe he’s irritated from the stitches, or if something else is wrong. We’ve kept his diet the same and he’s not showing any other signs of distress, but the scooting is really concerning. He's always been a happy, bouncy dog, and seeing him so uncomfortable is breaking my heart. I’m planning on calling the vet tomorrow, but in the meantime, if anyone has been through something similar or has any ideas, I’d be so grateful. Thanks in advance!
Hi there! I'm sorry to hear your pup is still having issues after the anal sacculectomy. It can be concerning to see them feeling uncomfortable. There are a few potential reasons why your dog might still be scooting. After surgery, it’s possible there could be some irritation or swelling as the area heals. Another reason could be that the surgical site is itchy, which is common during the healing process.
Try to keep the area clean and dry. Gently wiping the area with a damp cloth can help, but be sure to avoid scrubbing or applying any harsh materials. Applying a pet-safe balm might soothe the itching, but check with a professional before doing so.
Keep an eye out for signs of infection, like redness, swelling, discharge, or a bad smell. Also, watch for changes in behavior, such as loss of appetite, excessive licking, or signs of pain, which could indicate a more serious issue.
If your pup continues to scoot, a follow-up with a veterinarian could be beneficial to ensure everything is healing properly. I recommend scheduling a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They'll be able to take a closer look and provide guidance tailored to your pet's needs.
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