My dog has an anal gland abscess after antibiotics. What should I do?

If Zoey's anal sacs were really impacted, it may have been uncomfortable to have them expressed and he is still feeling uncomfortable. In addition, going to the vet is stressful for some dogs. I would keep an eye on her, and hopefully she's back to normal tomorrow. If not, I'd consider taking her back into the vet. I hope this helps!

It could be that Lucy's anal sacs were impacted and the vet expressed them. This can cause some discomfort for a bit of time afterward. She should return to normal in time. I'm glad the medication is working for her ears!

Your pet may have an inflamed or infected [anal gland](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/conditions-of-the-anal-glands). [Impacted or abscessed anal glands](https://www.petcoach.co/article/anal-glands-sacs-impactions-infections-abscesses-in-dogs) are very painful and makes it difficult to defecate or even move. Without treatment, an impacted gland may abscess and rupture, causing a open wound on your pet's rear that will require wound care, antibiotics and pain relief. I recommend getting your pet seen by your vet. He or she will express (empty) the anal glands, clean her up and possibly start her on antibiotics and pain medication if indicated. You can ask to be shown how to express the anal glands yourself at home so you can avoid impaction or infection in the future. Increased dietary fiber or supplements, such as [Glandex](), may help prevent anal gland issues as well.

Hello. Most anal gland infections heal up quite nicely with medications & keeping the area clean. Unless there is a special circumstance involving Tia's glands, such as the area is just not healing, additional flushing & treatment is usually not necessary. See how she does after a week on antibiotics & if she is doing well, just continue the antibiotics. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

It is possible that Zoey may be developing an anal sac abscess. It is also possible that she just has perianal itchiness from allergies. However, based on the picture it appears to me more right sided than left, so I would be very suspicious about an anal sac abscess. I would highly encourage you to have her evaluated by your veterinarian as soon as possible. In the meantime consider using a warm water compress to the area to improve comfort. Best of luck and thank you for using Pet Coach.

Hello, thank you for your question about Abby. If the abscess has already ruptured and you are able to warm compress the area, I would recommend allowing it to drain and do not feel that it needs any topical treatment. Abby should be discouraged from licking at the area as this will predispose her to developing a secondary infection. You could purchase an e-collar at a pet store or try using a t-shirt at home. After the holiday I would recommend contacting your veterinarian and relaying this information. They may recommend starting a short course of antibiotics at that time to help Abby heal quicker and prevent development of an infection. They can also consider pain medication at that time. Hope this helps, good luck!

This could be an anal gland abscess. You need to take Coco to your vet or a petER today, as this is a very painful condition. The vet will check both anal sacks, evacuate them and flush the abscessed one. He will instill some antibiotic ointment and prescribe pain medication for your dog.