posted 03-19-2004 10:46 AM         

You really should worm your dogs once a month on a regular scheduale anyway.

DO NOT rely on the wormers you see in the store. they really are a waste of money. I suggest Drontal because it covers all the basic worm types including tape worms. The next best thing I found is heartgard which doesn't cover the tape worms. You can order these meds MUCH cheaper over the net .
I personally order mine from an Australian site that charges less then the american sites and doesn't make you have to have Vet prescription like the American sites. I get them in 2 days

posted 03-19-2004 12:54 PM         

Dogs "dragging" their rear ends across the floor (they are in a sitting position and scoot across the floor), is often a sign that he/she needs their anal glands squeezed. Yuck, I know, but if that indeed is the problem, it is very important to have done due to the fact that it will worsen if left untreated!

So, I would definitely recommend that you check to see if that is the problem or not! (One of my dogs was exhibiting the same behavior as your dog, so he just had his done, and I am glad to say that he is all better now! )

Have an excellent day!

posted 03-19-2004 02:43 PM         

A dog scooting his/her rear across the floor is a very good indicator that their anal glands need to be expressed (meaning, squeezed). That behavior is how you know whether and when it needs to be done, and as Puttin mentioned, you can feel inside to see as well and confirm whether it needs to be done or not. This issue is not uncommon in small dogs, and is not as prevalent in large breed dogs (that is not to say though that it does not happen in larger breed dogs). When your dog's anal glands are full/plugged-up, the area often becomes itchy for the dog, thus leading them to exhibit the scooting behavior.

If this indeed is the issue you need to have the glands squeezed so they don't become infected or painful. The issue isn't a huge deal, BUT, when left untreated, THAT is when this issue becomes a bad problem!!!

Your veterinarian can, and should, be able perform the procedure. But, a lot of groomers also know how and will perform the procedure as well. (WARNING: make sure your groomer was formally taught by a professional how to do it. If done incorrectly, it can and will injure your dog.)

The procedure itself is very simple, fairly quick, and causes your dog no pain (no pain as long as it is not infected). Although, he may be a little squirmy during it since most dogs are not a big fan of people poking in that area...if you know what I mean! (Let me forewarn you, when having it done, it is VERY stinky! And, DON'T wear nice clothes if you plan on doing it, or being near the dog while having it done! )

Most vets and groomers will be willing to show you how to do it, but I chose not to learn how only because I don't trust myself doing it. I've seen it done and learned how, but I still leave it up to my groomer to do. But, if you are willing to learn how and wouldn't mind doing it, go for it (just be careful)!

Hope that helped explain it!

(Please do note that there are other more serious anal gland problems that require veterinary attention, but in most cases it isn't serious if it is what I mentioned above.)

posted 03-19-2004 03:08 PM         

I just saw your most recent post after I submitted my previous posts. To answer your question, I guess it depends on your dog. I would have him checked periodically to see whether he needs it or not (some dogs don't need it done at all). If he exhibits the scooting behavior on a consistent basis, then you may need to have the procedure done every so many weeks (I am not putting a specific number down because it depends on your dog's needs).