My dog is scooting, eating grass, and very hungry. Is it urgent?

Question

9 yr old mixed breed (likely poodle/spaniel/schnauzer) has an increased appetite, he is usually very picky with his food but recently, lickes his bowl clean each feed. Also eating more grass. Started scooting his bum on the ground, no nibbling/irriration around rear end. Had a fatty lump on his back (often nibbles/scratches at it) which came back inconclusive when investigated few months ago. Get him to the vet asap or is it reasonable to wait until the end of the month? Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Medium (23 - 60lb) | Male | neutered | 50 lbs

Karly Macon, DVM, MS, CVA Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist · Accepted Answer

Winston may possibly be working on an anal gland abscess, which is very painful and can make dogs scoot on the rear to relieve the pressure/itching. This doesn't likely have anything to do with his improved appetite recently. If he is eating more grass lately he may have some digestive upset, especially if it is combined with vomiting. Nothing you describe sounds especially urgent today, so if you want to wait to have him seen this shouldn't be a problem. It is possible Winston may have some allergy issues which can cause both anorectal itching/anal gland impactions as well as digestive concerns. He may benefit from a food allergy diet trial or allergy medication like Apoquel. If there is an abscess, he needs to be on antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medication. Hope that helps!

My dog is scooting, eating grass, and very hungry. Is it urgent?

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