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My dog has an anal gland infection. Is it an emergency vet visit?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 10 years and 3 months old | 114 lbs

My 10 year old yellow lab has an impacted/infected anal gland. Can it wait until Monday for treatment due to the hospital being closed until then?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Jennifer Summerfield, DVM CPDT-KA

Veterinarian, Certified Dog Trainer

Published on February 18th, 2017

Poor Buddy! An anal gland infection is not normally an emergency, so if he's acting normal otherwise (eating and drinking, active, etc.) it should be okay to wait until Monday to take him to the vet. If he seems excessively painful in this area, or if he is having any other symptoms such as acting lethargic or not wanting to eat, it would be best to take him to an emergency vet over the weekend since these can be signs of a more serious problem.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    This is will be painful to Buddy, and I would be concerned that the anal sac could rupture. There are vets on call over the weekend for emergencies, and I would reach one to see Buddy before Monday. The information to reach a vet on call is usually found on the clinic's answering machine or website. If you absolutely cannot reach a vet, have him seen first thing Monday morning.

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