Do Groomers Express Glands And Is It Different Than A Vet?

Yes, many groomers express anal glands, usually as part of a grooming package. The difference is that groomers express the glands externally, by squeezing from the outside, while vets typically express them internally through the rectum, which empties them more completely and lets the vet check for infection or impaction.

If your dog’s anal glands are swollen, painful or infected, a vet visit is in order. Let’s explore how a groomer’s service differs from a trip to the veterinarian, and when each makes sense.

If your dog needs expressing at every visit, a fiber supplement may help the glands empty on their own. Here are the best anal gland supplements for dogs.

What is gland expression in dog grooming?

Dog groomers seem to perform a little bit of magic when it comes to expressing anal glands. How do they do it? They typically use their special skill of external anal gland expression, which involves putting pressure on the outside of the glands to push out the fluid.

While this method can partially empty the glands, some of that pesky fluid might still be hanging around. This can come with problems if the dog’s glands don’t get completely emptied, leading to a recurring cycle of fluid-filled discomfort.

So dog groomers aren’t quite miracle workers, but their unique method of gland expression can bring some much-needed relief to your pup. If your dog scoots after an appointment, see dog scooting or licking butt after grooming.

Note: Some groomers have done the training to perform the internal expression of dog anal glands, but most groomers still prefer to do the external expression.

How is a groomer’s dog gland expression different from a vet’s?

Unlike dog groomers, vets use a much more complex method of anal gland expression. They actually insert their finger into your dog’s rectum and manually release the fluid that’s built up inside the glands. This is called internal anal gland expression and it can be uncomfortable for your dog and a bit of a smelly task for the vet.

The benefit of an internal gland expression is that it usually empties the dog’s glands more completely, which lowers the risk of impaction. Additionally, the vet can feel for any anomalies in the dog’s anal glands like inflammation or infection, something a dog groomer cannot do.

Why do groomers express glands externally?

For dog groomers, expressing anal glands is a task that comes with its fair share of challenges. No one really wants to get close and personal with your dog’s backside, after all! It’s understandable why dog groomers prefer to take the less smelly route by using external gland expression.

Jokes aside, the main reason is that most groomers aren’t trained to do an internal anal gland expression. It’s a more invasive task that is best left to veterinary professionals, who can also spot problems inside the glands. So dog groomers stick with the external method, though they can only provide mild and temporary relief this way.

Should groomers express your dog’s glands or a vet?

So who would you rather have to express your dog’s glands, a dog groomer or a vet? The answer depends on the situation. If your dog’s anal glands are full and are experiencing any discomfort, your dog should be seen by a vet as soon as possible.

The vet can provide much more comprehensive relief than a dog groomer, and they’ll be able to tell whether any further action needs to be taken like antibiotics or surgery. If your dog’s glands don’t become full often and are generally healthy, dog grooming can be a great option for dog owners who don’t want to make another trip to the vet’s office.

Keep in mind that many dogs never need their glands expressed at all, because the glands empty naturally when they poop. Routine squeezing of healthy glands can cause irritation and inflammation, so if your dog shows no signs of trouble, you can ask your groomer to skip it. For dogs with recurring problems, your vet may suggest adding fiber to the diet or weight loss to help the glands empty on their own.

Vet charge to express glands vs a dog groomer

If dog owners want to save a few bucks, a groomer is usually the cheaper option for routine anal gland expression.

At the groomer, gland expression is often included in a full grooming package or offered as a small add-on fee. At the vet, you’ll usually pay for the procedure plus an exam fee, so the total tends to be higher, although some clinics offer a cheaper technician appointment for routine expressions.

Prices vary a lot by area and clinic, so be sure to check with your local groomer and vet for their current prices.

Note: If your dog is in discomfort, or you notice swelling, blood or pus near the anus, skip the groomer and take your dog to the vet instead.

6 Signs your dog needs their glands expressed

According to our vet writer, Dr. Linda Simon, dog owners should be aware of a few signs that might indicate their dog needs their anal glands expressed.

These include:

Bum Dragging
Quickly Looking Behind Towards The Tail
A Fishy Smell Coming From The Anus
Visible Discharge Around The Home
Swelling Or Redness Near The Anus
Ruptured Skin And Pus Draining

The last 2 signs could indicate that your dog’s anal glands are infected, and in this case, you should take them to the vet right away.

Does Petco express glands?

Petco does indeed offer dog grooming services which include anal gland expression services. Every Petco location is slightly different, so it’s best to check with your local store for their specific dog grooming services and prices.

Their grooming services are generally priced based on your dog’s size and coat, and gland expression is typically part of the bath and full-groom packages. You can also ask whether they offer it as a standalone add-on.

Does PetSmart express glands?

Same as Petco, Petsmart includes gland expression within their dog grooming services. Prices vary depending on your dog’s breed, size, and length of their coat.

Gland expression is usually included in the dog grooming package but it’s best to check with your local PetSmart store for their dog grooming services and prices.

Final Thoughts – Dog Groomer vs Vet

In conclusion, dog owners need to decide whether dog groomers or vets should express their dog’s anal glands. The answer depends on the dog’s current situation, but dog owners can save some money and time by taking their dog to the groomers for anal gland expression. But if your dog’s glands are infected, painful, or become full too often, it’s best to take them to the vet.