We all know that being a caregiver to our furry friends is not always a walk in the park. Sometimes, it involves tasks that are a tad bit more uncomfortable, yet essential for your dog’s well-being. One such task is expressing your dog’s glands externally.
Preliminary Considerations
Before diving paw-first into this task, there are a couple of things you need to know:
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Is it Necessary? Not all dogs need their glands expressed regularly. Some dogs naturally express their glands when they defecate. However, if your dog is scooting, licking their rear excessively, or has a foul-smelling discharge, it might be time to step in.
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Seek Professional Help First: It’s best to have a vet or a professional groomer show you how to perform this procedure. It can be uncomfortable for your dog, and if done incorrectly, it can cause injury.
Gathering the Essentials
To perform this task, you’ll need a few essentials. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Disposable gloves
- Soft, clean cloth or paper towels
- Dog-friendly wipes
The Step-by-Step Process
Now, let’s move on to the actual procedure. Remember, patience and gentleness are key.
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Preparation: Put on your disposable gloves and have your clean cloth or paper towels within reach.
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Positioning: Stand behind your dog, lifting their tail gently.
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Location: The glands are located at approximately 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock positions, just below the anus.
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Expression: Apply gentle pressure upwards, towards the anus. If done correctly, a small amount of fluid should be released.
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Clean up: Use the dog-friendly wipes to clean the area thoroughly.
Potential Risks and Complications
While expressing your dog’s glands is generally safe when done correctly, there can be potential risks and complications, such as:
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Infection: If your dog’s glands are already infected, expressing can exacerbate the condition.
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Injury: Applying too much pressure or at the wrong angle can injure your dog.
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Recurrence: Over time, regular expressing can lead to the glands not emptying naturally.
Always consult with your vet if you notice any abnormal signs or symptoms.
When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re not comfortable performing this task, or if your dog shows signs of discomfort, pain or distress, it’s time to seek professional help. Your vet or a professional groomer can safely and effectively perform this procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I express my dog’s glands?
A: The frequency can vary greatly from one dog to another. Some dogs may never need it, while others may need it every few weeks. Consult with your vet for the best advice.
Q: Can I hurt my dog by expressing their glands?
A: Yes, if done incorrectly or too forcefully, it can cause injury. It’s always best to learn from a professional first.
Q: What should the gland fluid look like?
A: Normal gland fluid is typically brown and has a strong, fishy odor. If the fluid is bloody, green, or thick, it’s best to consult with your vet.
Being a caregiver is a labor of love, and sometimes, it involves getting your hands a little dirty. But remember, your furry friend’s health and comfort are worth it.
