Help, what do I do? It’s late at night, and I just noticed something really concerning with my dog. I was petting Max while we were watching TV, and when he curled up for a belly rub, I saw something red and swollen near his backside. I’m freaking out because it looks like it could be a hemorrhoid, but I have no idea if dogs even get those. Max seems a bit uncomfortable, like he’s been fidgeting more than usual, and I swear I caught him licking that area a lot earlier today. Unfortunately, there’s no way to see the vet until tomorrow morning, and I just need to know if there’s anything I can do to help him feel better overnight. Any advice would be great—I’m feeling pretty helpless right now!
Thanks for reaching out. I completely understand why you're worried about your dog possibly having hemorrhoids. In dogs, what might look like hemorrhoids could actually be something else, such as anal gland issues, rectal prolapse, or even inflammation from diarrhea.
Dogs don’t typically get hemorrhoids like humans do, so if you notice swelling around your dog's anus, it might be related to their anal glands. These can get blocked or infected, causing discomfort. Make sure your dog isn't scooting too much, which can irritate the area further. Keeping the area clean with a damp washcloth and making sure your dog isn't licking excessively can help prevent further irritation.
Watch for signs of heightened discomfort, bleeding, or a change in bowel habits, as these might indicate a more serious issue requiring immediate veterinary care. If your dog shows signs like excessive pain, lots of bleeding, or if the swelling rapidly increases, those are signs to get to a vet as soon as possible.
For more specific advice or if the symptoms persist, I recommend booking a video consult with a vet on Dial A Vet. It’s always helpful to have a professional take a look at what's going on, to ensure your fur friend gets the best care possible.
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