At Old Farm Vet in Frederick, MD, we understand that your pet’s health and comfort are a top priority. Anal gland issues can be a source of discomfort for many dogs and cats, often going unnoticed until they start exhibiting symptoms. Our professional anal gland expression service is available in Frederick, Maryland. Allow us to relieve your pet of this discomfort and ensure their overall well-being.
What is Anal Gland Expression?
Anal glands are small sacs located near the rectum in dogs and cats, responsible for producing a strong-smelling fluid used for marking territory. Sometimes, these glands can become impacted, infected, or fail to empty on their own. This means they need to be manually expressed. If left untreated, this can result in infections or abscesses.
There are many signs your pet may need anal gland expression, such as:
- Frequent scooting or dragging their bottom across the floor
- Excessive licking or biting near the tail or rectum
- Swelling or discomfort around the rear end
- A strong, unpleasant odor
- Irritability or restlessness
If your pet is showing any of these signs, it may be time to schedule an appointment.
What Happens During An Anal Gland Expression Service?
Our team at Old Farm Vet is experienced in performing safe and gentle anal gland expression, offering relief and preventing further complications.
If the anal glands are full but not infected or abscessed, the trained veterinary staff will perform manual expression. This involves gently applying pressure around the glands from the outside (or internally, depending on the pet’s size and anatomy) to release the fluid. The fluid is usually a thick, brownish substance with a strong odor.
After the glands have been expressed, the area is cleaned thoroughly to remove any fluid and odor, ensuring your pet is comfortable. If the vet notices any signs of infection or inflammation during the exam or expression, they may recommend further treatment. This could involve flushing the glands, prescribing antibiotics, or providing pain relief if necessary.
Overall, the procedure is quick, and most pets experience immediate relief from discomfort. If it’s a routine procedure, your pet will likely be back to their normal self shortly after the appointment.
Why Choose Old Farm Vet in Frederick, MD?
At Old Farm Vet, we take a compassionate and gentle approach to every service we offer. Our trained veterinary professionals ensure that your pet is handled with care throughout the anal gland expression process. In addition to this service, we also provide a full range of grooming and veterinary care to keep your pet healthy and happy.
We use a combination of medical expertise and a pet-friendly environment to ensure your pet feels at ease. Regular anal gland checks can be incorporated into your pet’s routine wellness visits, preventing any discomfort before it arises.
Don’t let your pet suffer from the discomfort of impacted anal glands. Contact Old Farm Vet in Frederick, MD, today to schedule an anal gland expression appointment. We’re here to provide professional, compassionate care to keep your furry friend feeling their best.
