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My dog has a painful abscess near her behind. What should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Female | spayed | 9 years old | 16 lbs

it looks like coco has an absese by her behind what can i do about it thanks

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Andrea M. Brodie, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on September 1st, 2018

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.

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    Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

    Veterinarian

    Published on November 27th, 2016

    It does sound like Prim needs pain medication based on your description of her. With treatment, you should have seen some improvement in symptoms within 24-48 hours, but if she is getting worse (terrible pain, doesn't want to walk around much, doesn't want to move to eat or drink), then this is not normal, and she should see a vet right away. I would take her into an ER vet now for an exam. The vet can prescribe pain medication for her, and can do any other treatment they feel is necessary. Do not give her any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

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    Answered By Amber Da Silva, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 6th, 2017

    I am sorry to hear the Bell is hurting. It sounds like she has an anal gland abscess and these are very painful. I would make an appointment with a veterinarian tomorrow as they often need to be treated with oral antibiotics and pain medication. Until then, you can try a warm compress on the area for 10-15 minutes to encourage drainage. Please do not give her any human pain medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen or Tylenol as these can have serious side effects in animals. If you feel like she is too painful, then please seek veterinary care tonight.

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This is most likely due to a ruptured anal gland abscess. Have her examined by your veterinarian for confirmation. Your veterinarian should check the other gland and express (empty) it if necessary. Antibiotics will probably be dispensed. Pain medication may also be dispensed if indicated. place an e-collar (cone) on her to prevent licking until she has healed.
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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](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/glandex-anal-gland-beef-and-liver-powder-supplement-for-dogs-and-cats), may help prevent anal gland issues
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