As a pet owner, it’s important to be aware of the costs associated with caring for your furry friend. One of the routine procedures that you may need to consider is expressing your dog’s anal glands. This procedure is necessary when the glands become blocked or infected, causing discomfort and pain for your pet. If left untreated, the issue can worsen and lead to more serious health problems.
So, how much does it cost to express a dog’s glands? Continue reading to find out!
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How Much Does It Cost to Express a Dog’s Glands
So, “how much does it cost to express a dog’s glands?” The average cost of dog gland expression in the UK can vary depending on several factors such as location, veterinarian fees, and the severity of the condition. However, on average, pet owners can expect to pay around £30 to £60 for a single session of dog gland expression in the UK. However, there are several things that can affect this price.
The location of the veterinary clinic is one of the most significant factors that can affect the cost of gland expression. Clinics located in cities or high-cost areas tend to charge more than those in rural or low-cost areas. In the UK, the prices for expressing a dog’s anal glands vary depending on the region.
Additionally, the experience and expertise of the veterinarian performing the procedure can also affect the cost. Highly experienced veterinarians or specialists may charge more for their services.
Here are some signs that may indicate that your dog’s anal glands require immediate attention:
Signs Your Dog Needs Its Glands Expressed
- Scooting or dragging their bottom along the ground
- Excessive licking or biting around the anal area
- A foul odour emanating from the dog’s rear end
- Swelling or redness around the anal area
- Difficulty defecating or discomfort while passing stool
- Changes in bowel movements or diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite or lethargy
- Signs of pain or discomfort when sitting or lying down
If you observe any of these symptoms, it is recommended to have your dog examined by a veterinarian as soon as possible.
What Happens If You Don’t Express Your Dog’s Glands?
If you don’t express your dog’s anal glands, there is a risk that the glands could become impacted or infected, which can lead to discomfort and even health problems for your dog. The anal glands, which are located on either side of the anus, produce a strong-smelling liquid that is normally expelled when a dog defecates. However, in some dogs, the glands do not empty properly, which can cause the liquid to build up and create discomfort for the dog.
Therefore, it’s important to regularly check your dog’s anal glands and have them expressed as needed by a veterinarian or a trained groomer to prevent any potential problems. Your veterinarian can also provide guidance on how often your dog’s glands should be expressed based on their individual needs.
Tips for Keeping Your Dog’s Anal Glands Healthy
A well-balanced diet rich in fibre can help promote healthy bowel movements and prevent constipation, which can contribute to anal gland problems.
Exercise can help keep your dog’s digestive system healthy and promote regular bowel movements.
Adequate hydration can help keep your dog’s stools soft, which can make it easier for your dog to express their anal glands naturally.
FAQs
How do you know if your dog’s glands are full?
If your dog’s glands are really full, they may leak out a stinky, pungent smell. Sometimes you’ll see spots of brownish material in places where your dog has been sitting, such as on your carpet, your furniture or your lap.
Can I express my dog’s glands myself?
You can, however, you should avoid getting the expressed liquid on your skin because it has a really bad odour. After expressing the glands, the region must be thoroughly cleaned. The liquid’s appearance might range from clear and sandy to smooth and clear.
How often should dogs have their glands expressed?
According to Petmd, it is usually best to have their glands expressed every 3-4 weeks to prevent the issue from happening again. Your dog’s anal glands can be expressed by your veterinarian, a veterinary technician, or even some dog groomers.
What happens if you don’t express your dog’s glands?
If the anal glands are not emptied they can become impacted and an abscess can form, which then bursts through the skin leaving a smelly, bloody, painful mess.
What dog breeds need their glands expressed?
Certain breeds (usually smaller breeds) are also more likely to need it monthly, manual expression of their glands: Chihuahuas, Toy and Miniature Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Lhasa Apsos, Basset Hounds, and Beagles top the list.
Conclusion
Let’s give “How Much Does It Cost to Express a Dog’s Glands?” a final touch. The cost of expressing a dog’s anal glands can vary depending on several factors, including location, the severity of the issue, and the expertise of the veterinarian. The average cost for a routine gland expression can range from $30 to $60. As a responsible pet owner, it’s important to budget for routine pet care, including gland expressions, to ensure the health and well-being of your furry friend.
Dog gland expression costs are typically greater in regions of the UK with higher average incomes, hence London is the region with the highest costs.
References:
- Morrison, B. D. J. (2022, September 9). Anal Glands on Dogs: What You Need to Know. PetMD. Retrieved February 25, 2024, from https://www.petmd.com/dog/general-health/anal-glands-dogs
- Reynolds, S. (2023, January 6). How Much Does It Cost To Express Dog Glands UK 2024. Dogs Actually. Retrieved February 25, 2024, from https://dogsactually.co.uk/how-much-does-it-cost-to-express-dog-anal-glands-uk/
- P. (2017, October 20). Exploring the Importance of Expressing Anal Glands of Dogs. Merryfield School of Pet Grooming. Retrieved February 25, 2024, from https://www.merryfield.edu/exploring-importance-dog-gland-expression/
- Colgate. (2023, January 3). Dog Scooting & Recognising Anal Gland Problems. Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Retrieved February 25, 2024, from https://www.hillspet.co.uk/dog-care/healthcare/dog-scooting-anal-gland-problems
- How to Empty Express Dog’s Anal Glands at Home | D for Dog. (n.d.). Retrieved February 25, 2024, from https://www.dfordog.co.uk/blog/how-to-empty-dog-anal-glands.html
