Some more concerns...

Thanks for your reply dragondawg. I just looked up secreting the anal glands and that's not really something I want to do myself, so I'll be booking him in to see the vet tmrw.

I was told a long time ago that dogs can get worms from mice, so thanks for clearing that up! I do not currently have Spike on a monthly heatworm medication. The vet advises that for the spring/summer seasons because that's when mosquitoes are out, so now I'm confused. Should he be on the heartworm year round? (we live in Canada where winters are quite chilly...-32 today!brrrrr)

And how do I know this is not heart/tape worm as opposed to anal glands? Sounds like I have to take him in to get the glands drained, and then if that's not the reason, take him in again for worm testing. Just wish I could be sure so I could avoid a second visit.

Thanks for all the help.

Oh..by the way...you mentioned that the anal glands are common in Labs because of their tissue. Just thought it would be worth mentioning that Spike is 10lbs, incase that plays a factor.