Anal Gland Expression

Professional anal gland expression services for dogs and cats. Safe, hygienic anal sac emptying by veterinary professionals. Prevent impaction, infection & discomfort. Expert care for your pet's anal gland health.

Professional Anal Gland Expression Services - Comfort & Health for Your Pet

At Vets4YourPets, we provide professional anal gland expression services to keep your pet comfortable and healthy. Our experienced veterinary team understands that anal gland issues can cause significant discomfort for pets and unpleasant situations for families. We offer safe, hygienic anal sac care that prevents impaction, infection, and the messy problems that come with overfull anal glands.

Understanding Anal Glands

Anal glands (also called anal sacs) are small pouches located on either side of your pet's anus. These glands naturally produce a strong-smelling fluid that serves as a scent marker. In the wild, this fluid is normally expressed during bowel movements, but many domestic pets need assistance with this natural process.

Why Pets Need Anal Gland Expression:

  • Soft diets don't provide enough pressure for natural expression
  • Smaller dog breeds are more prone to anal gland issues
  • Overweight pets may have difficulty with natural expression
  • Some pets have naturally narrow anal gland ducts
  • Allergies and skin conditions can affect gland function
  • Stress and anxiety can impact normal gland emptying

Signs Your Pet Needs Anal Gland Expression

Common Symptoms:

  • Scooting - Dragging their bottom across the floor
  • Excessive Licking - Constantly licking the anal area
  • Strong Fishy Odor - Persistent unpleasant smell
  • Difficulty Sitting - Reluctance to sit or discomfort when sitting
  • Tail Chasing - Obsessive spinning or chasing their tail
  • Straining - Difficulty or discomfort during bowel movements
  • Swelling - Visible swelling around the anal area
  • Behavioral Changes - Irritability or restlessness

Emergency Signs (Seek Immediate Care):

  • Blood or pus discharge from anal area
  • Severe swelling or hard lumps near the anus
  • Signs of pain when touching the rear end
  • Fever or lethargy combined with anal gland symptoms
  • Inability to defecate normally

Our Professional Anal Gland Services

Professional Advantages:

  • Proper technique to avoid injury
  • Sterile, hygienic procedures
  • Ability to detect infections or abnormalities
  • Safe handling of anxious or sensitive pets
  • Immediate treatment if complications are found

How Often Do Pets Need Anal Gland Expression?

Frequency Guidelines:

  • Small Dogs: Every 4-6 weeks (more prone to issues)
  • Large Dogs: Every 6-8 weeks or as needed
  • Cats: Less frequently, usually only when symptomatic
  • Senior Pets: May need more frequent attention
  • Overweight Pets: Often require more regular expression

Note: Some pets never need anal gland expression, while others require monthly attention. Our team will help determine the right schedule for your pet.

What to Expect During the Procedure

  1. Gentle Restraint - Comfortable positioning to keep your pet calm
  2. Visual Inspection - Check for swelling, discharge, or abnormalities
  3. Manual Expression - Gentle pressure to empty the anal sacs
  4. Fluid Assessment - Examination of expressed material for signs of infection
  5. Cleaning - Thorough hygiene care of the anal area
  6. Post-Procedure Check - Ensure comfort and complete emptying

Duration: Most anal gland expressions take 5-10 minutes and provide immediate relief.

Anal Gland Health Conditions We Treat

Common Issues:

  • Impaction - Thick, paste-like material that won't express naturally
  • Infection - Bacterial overgrowth causing inflammation and discharge
  • Abscess - Severe infection requiring immediate medical attention
  • Tumors - Rare but serious growths in or around anal glands
  • Chronic Issues - Recurring problems requiring ongoing management

Treatment Options:

  • Regular manual expression
  • Antibiotic therapy for infections
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Dietary modifications to improve stool consistency
  • Weight management programs
  • Surgical removal (in severe, chronic cases)

Prevention & Home Care

Ways to Support Healthy Anal Glands:

  • High-Fiber Diet - Helps create firmer stools for natural expression
  • Weight Management - Maintain healthy body weight
  • Regular Exercise - Promotes healthy bowel movements
  • Adequate Water - Proper hydration supports digestive health
  • Stress Reduction - Minimize anxiety that can affect gland function

When NOT to Attempt Home Expression:

  • Never attempt if you're not trained - risk of injury
  • Signs of infection or blood present
  • Pet shows signs of pain or extreme discomfort
  • Previous complications or chronic issues
  • Uncertainty about proper technique

Breeds Most Prone to Anal Gland Issues

High-Risk Dog Breeds:

  • Chihuahuas and toy breeds
  • Cocker Spaniels
  • Bulldogs and Pugs
  • Beagles
  • Basset Hounds
  • Poodles (all sizes)

Cats:

While less common than in dogs, cats can also experience anal gland issues, particularly:

  • Overweight cats
  • Senior cats
  • Cats with chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • Indoor cats with less active lifestyles

Cost & Scheduling

Service Options:

  • Individual anal gland expression
  • Combined with routine examinations
  • Package deals for regular maintenance
  • Emergency services for urgent issues

Scheduling:

  • Walk-in appointments available
  • Quick service - most procedures take 5-10 minutes
  • Regular maintenance schedules
  • Emergency availability for urgent cases

Ready for a visit?

We proudly serve the pets of Dublin, Pleasanton, San Ramon, Livermore, and Ca. We look forward to welcoming you and your furry friend soon! Book an appointment by clicking the button below.
Need urgent assistance? Just tap the button below to call us now

Why People Love Us

Victoria Wotton
Prof. May Dach
Dr. Simeon Labadie V
Catherine Swift MD
Mrs. Yazmin Tremblay PhD
Arely Reilly DDS
Bettie Gibson II
Prof. Maurice Jerde
Dr. Joe Hegmann DDS
Ms. Taryn Feeney IV
We proudly serve the pets of Salida, Turlock, Ceres, and Hughson, CA. We look forward to welcoming you and your furry friend soon! Book an appointment by clicking the button below. Need urgent assistance? Just tap the button below to call us now
Victoria WottonFementum Odio Co.
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