If you find your dog in pain after their anal glands are expressed, there are several steps you can take to ease discomfort. In this article, we’ll discuss what to do if your dog is in pain after glands are expressed.
Gland expression is something that all dog owners have to do at some point, but it can be uncomfortable for your pup. After all, having anal glands expressed is like getting a painful massage on an area that’s already sensitive.
Read on to learn more about how to keep your pup comfortable after this procedure.
Before reading this guide, “What to Do if Your Dog Is in Pain After Glands Are Expressed,” check out: The 8 Best High Fiber Dog Food for Anal Gland Problems! (2023)
What Is Gland Expression?
Gland expression is a procedure used to empty a dog’s anal glands.
Anal glands are located on either side of your dog’s anus and secrete a stinky, oily substance that helps mark their territory. When the glands become impacted or overfilled, they can cause discomfort, as well as unpleasant odors.
Gland expression is done by pressing on each gland until it empties into a small container. The procedure typically takes a few minutes and can be done at home or by a veterinarian or groomer.
Most dogs can express their own glands by scooting or dragging their bottom across the floor. They release small amounts of fluid as they do this. However, the dog’s anal glands may sometimes stop functioning properly and need to be expressed by a vet or groomer.
During the gland expression procedure, a certified professional will reach into the area and gently massage and squeeze the glands until they empty out. In some cases, the secretions may have to be inspected for infection or blockages.
Do Dogs Feel Relief After Glands Expressed?
Most dogs feel relief after their glands are expressed. After all, the procedure helps to reduce discomfort and pressure in the anal area caused by overfilled or impacted glands.
One way to tell if your pup feels relief after their glands are expressed is to observe them for a few minutes afterward. They should no longer be scooting or dragging their butt across the floor, which indicates they are more comfortable. Additionally, you may notice that they seem more relaxed.
In some cases, your pup may even appear to be relieved of any pain or discomfort. This is a sign that their anal glands are functioning properly again and releasing secretions naturally as intended.
It’s also possible for your dog to feel some soreness after its glands have been expressed. This can occur due to the massage-like technique used during the procedure and is completely normal.
In most cases, this soreness will dissipate within a few hours and can be managed with over-the-counter pain medications or natural remedies such as hot compresses or Epsom salt baths.
Finally, if you’re still not sure your pup is feeling relief after its glands have been expressed, it’s best to check with your vet for a professional opinion. They’ll be able to assess your dog’s condition and advise on how to best manage any lingering discomfort or soreness in the anal area after the expression.
Signs Your Dog Is in Pain After Glands Are Expressed
“Is my dog in pain after their glands are expressed? Has the procedure worked or did I make it worse?”
These are common questions that dog owners may have after their pup has had their anal glands expressed. It’s important to be aware of the signs that your dog is in pain after its glands are expressed so that you can seek treatment as soon as possible to help them feel better.
Common signs of pain after glands are expressed include:
1. Licking or Biting at the Anal Area
If your dog is licking or biting at its anal area more than usual, it could be a sign that they are in pain or feeling discomfort. This behavior can also indicate that the glands were not expressed properly or that they are infected.
Although most dogs occasionally lick or bite at their behinds, if you notice that your dog is doing it more frequently than before the procedure, it’s best to check with your vet for further advice.
2. Excessive Scooting or Dragging of the Bottom Across the Floor
Scooting or dragging the bottom across the floor are two common behaviors that indicate your dog’s anal glands need to be expressed. If you notice that your pup is doing this after the procedure, it could be a sign that the glands weren’t expressed properly or they are still infected.
Most dogs don’t normally engage in this behavior, so if you spot your pup scooting or dragging its bottom more than usual after the procedure, it’s best to speak to your vet for further advice.
3. Swelling and Redness of the Anal Area
When your dog’s anal area is swollen or red, it could be an indication that its glands were not expressed correctly. The swelling and redness may be caused by an infection, irritation, or blockage of the glands.
Checking with your vet is the best way to determine the cause of the swelling and redness, as well as to get advice on how to treat it.
How Can I Soothe My Dog’s Glands?
If you find your dog in pain after their glands are expressed, there are a few things you can do to help.
Let’s take a look at these dog care tips:
Apply a Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help reduce swelling and soreness in the anal area.
All you need is a clean cloth or towel soaked in warm water, then gently press it on your dog’s bottom for 10 to 15 minutes. This should help soothe any discomfort they may be feeling. Continue doing this until the swelling and redness subside.
Your dog may also appreciate a short massage after the compress is removed. Focus on gently kneading and rubbing their anal area to help disperse any accumulated fluid.
Give Your Dog Pain Medication
If your dog is in a significant amount of pain after glands have been expressed, you can consider an over-the-counter dog pain medication, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, with veterinarian approval.
It’s important to never give your dog pain medication without consulting with a professional first, as it can be dangerous if given the wrong dosage. Just because a drug was approved for humans, that doesn’t mean it’s safe for dogs. You should also ensure your dog has enough water to prevent dehydration.
Stick to a Soft Diet
Giving your dog a soft diet after they have had their glands expressed can help reduce any discomfort they may be feeling.
Opt for dog foods that contain softer ingredients, such as cooked chicken or fish, boiled eggs, and mashed potatoes. You can also give them wet dog food, as long as it’s not too high in fat content.
Avoid giving your dog any dry dog foods for a few days after their glands are expressed, as these can be harder to digest and may cause more discomfort.
Offer Regular Potty Breaks
Ensuring that your dog gets regular potty breaks can help reduce inflammation and pain they may feel in their anal area.
Make sure you stick to a regular schedule, and if your dog isn’t feeling well after the procedure, take them out every two hours or so. This will help them stay comfortable.
Regular potty breaks can also help prevent further blockage of the dog’s anal glands, which can be painful and uncomfortable.
Keep Your Dog Away from Other Dogs
If your dog is still feeling sore after having its glands expressed, you should keep them away from other dogs. This will help prevent any further infections or irritations in the anal area. Dogs have a natural instinct to bite, scratch, or groom each other, and this could further irritate your dog’s bottom.
In addition to giving your dog time to heal and recover, consider speaking with a vet regarding any treatments they may recommend for lasting relief.
How Do You Know That Your Dog Needs His Glands Squeezed?
When it comes to dog health, one of the most important issues to monitor is your dog’s anal glands.
Anal glands are small sacs located near the dog’s anus, and they produce a strong-smelling liquid that helps with scent marking and communication. Unfortunately, these glands can become blocked or overactive, leading to pain and discomfort for your dog.
In some cases, you may need to have a vet manually express glands to reduce potential complications. But how do you know if your dog needs its glands squeezed?
There are several tell-tale signs that your dog may need their glands expressed:
- Your dog is rolling their bottom on the floor or furniture.
- Your dog is excessively licking, biting, or scooting at the area around their anus.
- Your dog’s gait changes because of discomfort in the anal area.
- You see a dark brown liquid coming from your dog’s anus.
If you notice any of these signs in your dog, it’s time to consult with a vet. A vet can express your dog’s glands safely and effectively, reducing any pain or discomfort your dog may be experiencing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Blocked anal glands can be uncomfortable or even painful for dogs, so they should be treated.
If you notice your dog constantly scooting on the floor, their glands may be infected.
Certain anti-inflammatory drugs like Deracoxib, Firocoxib, and Grapiprant are approved for dogs by the FDA. Generally speaking, drugs intended for human consumption are not safe for dogs.
Conclusion for “What to Do if Your Dog Is in Pain After Glands Are Expressed”
If you see your dog in pain after having their glands expressed, there are several steps you can take to help reduce any swelling or inflammation in the anal area.
Over-the-counter dog pain medications, a soft diet, and regular potty breaks can help make your dog feel more comfortable. Make sure to also keep your dog away from other dogs until they have had enough time to heal completely. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to contact your veterinarian.
If you find this guide, “What to Do if Your Dog Is in Pain After Glands Are Expressed,” helpful, check out:
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- Why Does My Dog Leave Brown Spots on the Bed? (2023)
- The 6 Best Dog Scooting Treatments in 2023!
Learn more by watching “Dog’s Anal Gland Problems: 12 Ways to Prevent and Treat” down below:
Garrett loves animals and is a huge advocate for all Doodle dog breeds. He owns his own Goldendoodle named Kona. In addition, he volunteers at the Humane Society of Silicon Valley, where he fosters dogs and helps animals. Garrett enjoys writing about Doodles and believes that dogs can teach humans more about how to live than humans can teach a dog.
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