Dog owners love keeping their furry friends clean and happy, but one often-overlooked issue can cause severe discomfort—anal gland problems. If you’ve ever seen your dog scooting across the floor or licking their rear excessively, their anal glands may need attention.
Many pet owners are unaware of how vital dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX, is for their dog’s health. Left untreated, impacted anal glands can lead to infections, pain, and costly vet visits.
Professional groomers deal with this issue regularly and want dog owners to understand why anal gland care matters. In this blog, we’ll cover
What Are Anal Glands?
Dogs have two small glands located near their rectum. These glands produce a smelly fluid that helps with scent marking and, in the wild, helps dogs communicate with other animals.
Usually, a dog’s anal glands empty naturally during bowel movements. But sometimes, they don’t drain properly, leading to discomfort and potential infections. That’s where dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX, comes in.
Signs Your Dog Needs Gland Expression
Not all dogs need help expressing their anal glands, but some do. Watch for these common signs:
- Scooting their bottom on the floor
- Licking or biting the area excessively
- A strong, fishy odor
- Difficulty sitting or discomfort near the tail
- Swelling or redness around the anal area
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to consider dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX.
Why Some Dogs Need Help
Smaller breeds, like Chihuahuas and Shih Tzus, often have more gland issues. Overweight dogs are also at risk because extra fat can pressure the glands, making natural expression harder.
Another factor is poor diet. Dogs eating low-fiber food may not have firm enough stools to express their glands naturally. A fiber-rich diet can sometimes prevent the need for manual expression.
The Dangers of Ignoring Anal Gland Issues
If a dog’s anal glands don’t drain properly, they can become impacted. This means the fluid inside thickens and clogs the glands. Left untreated, this can lead to infection and even abscesses.
An untreated infection can cause severe pain and require costly veterinary care. Regular dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX, can prevent these issues before they become serious.
How Groomers Express Anal Glands
Groomers are trained to perform external anal gland expression. This involves gently applying pressure to the glands from the outside. This method works for most dogs, but some may need a vet’s help if the glands are deeply impacted.
A professional groomer knows how to handle the process quickly and efficiently, minimizing discomfort for your pet. That’s why many pet owners rely on dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX, rather than attempting it themselves.
Should You Try It at Home?
Some dog owners want to try expressing their dogs’ glands themselves. While this is possible, it’s not recommended unless you’ve been shown how to do it correctly.
Here’s why:
- Applying too much pressure can injure your dog.
- If done incorrectly, it can cause pain or infection.
- The smell is powerful and hard to clean.
- Some dogs may react aggressively due to discomfort.
If you’re unsure, let a professional handle your dog’s anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX, to avoid harming your pet.
How Often Do Dogs Need This Done?
Every dog is different. Some need gland expression every few weeks, while others never require it.
Groomers usually check a dog’s glands during regular grooming sessions. If they notice the glands are complete, they will express them. Dogs with chronic issues may need more frequent attention.
Preventing Anal Gland Problems
There are ways to reduce the need for frequent gland expression:
- High-Fiber Diet – Fiber adds bulk to stools, helping natural gland expression.
- Regular Exercise – Staying active helps keep a dog’s digestive system working correctly.
- Proper Grooming – Regular grooming includes checking for signs of anal gland issues.
- Weight Management – Keeping your dog at a healthy weight reduces gland problems.
Following these steps can reduce your pet’s need for frequent dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX.
When to See a Vet
See a vet immediately if your dog has severe swelling, bleeding, or extreme discomfort. Infections and abscesses require medical treatment, sometimes including antibiotics or surgery.
Groomers can handle routine dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX, but a veterinarian should address serious problems.
The Bottom Line: Keeping Your Dog Healthy and Comfortable
Anal gland issues might not be the most pleasant topic, but they are essential for your dog’s comfort and well-being. Many pet owners don’t realize how common these problems are until their furry friend scoots, licks, or shows discomfort. That’s why understanding dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX is so important.
You can help your dog avoid painful infections and unnecessary vet visits by staying informed and proactive. Regular grooming, a fiber-rich diet, and maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute to better anal gland health. While some dogs never need manual expression, others may require routine care to prevent complications.
Trust the professionals if you’re unsure whether your dog needs gland expression. Groomers in Fort Worth have the skills and experience to handle the process safely and efficiently. Instead of attempting it at home—where things can quickly get messy and stressful—let an expert take care of it for you.
Most importantly, pay attention to any warning signs. It may be time to see a vet if you notice swelling, extreme discomfort, or a firm, fishy odor that won’t disappear. Groomers can help with routine dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX, but serious issues like infections or abscesses require medical attention.
Your dog depends on you to keep them healthy and happy. By understanding their anal gland needs and taking the proper steps, you can prevent pain, improve hygiene, and ensure your furry friend stays comfortable. Whether it’s regular grooming, dietary changes, or a vet visit, taking action now will save your dog from unnecessary discomfort later.
So next time you’re scheduling a grooming appointment, ask about dog anal gland expression in Fort Worth, TX. Your dog will thank you with wagging tails and happy kisses!
