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Post by Zoe Forward, DVM, Dipl. ABVP (canine/feline) Is your dog scooting and licking at her hind end? Perhaps she is emitted a foul odor reminiscent of dead fish? That indicates the anal sacs are irritated or too full. Maybe you already know this and find you need to have your dog in to the vet every 4 to 6 weeks to have those glands expressed? Sometimes the anal sacs experience an overproduction of secretion that leads to this scenario. But expressing them on a routine basis when your dog is not showing signs they bother her may not always be the best plan. If this is a NEW problem, then your dog may have an anal sac infection that needs medication. THE BASICS What are the anal sacs? Popularly called "anal glands", these are two small pouches located on either side of the anus at approximately 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions. The sacs are lined with numerous specialized sebaceous glands that produce a foul smelling secretion. What's their function? The anal s...

Guest post by Jessica Fellers, DVM Sometimes it is tough to know when to make an appointment with your veterinarian for your pet. What symptoms should cause the most concern or even warrant a trip to the emergency clinic in the middle of the night? The most important thing you need to know is ask, ask, ask . Call us at (704) 220-0226 with any questions you may have.    It's always better to make an appointment, have your pet examined, and find out that your pet is fine. Peace of mind is of great value! There are times when it is obvious that emergency care is necessary, such as traumatic injury, severe bite wounds, difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse etc. But what are some things that you can do, to help you to decide, when you aren’t so sure? GUIDELINES FOR AT HOME TO KNOW WHEN TO HAVE YOUR PET SEEN: If your pet allows you to safely take a rectal temperature with a digital thermometer, apply a small amount of petroleum jelly, and gently insert o...