Yes, Petco groomers are trained to perform external anal gland expression as part of their full grooming services (baths/haircuts) or as an add-on, helping with issues like scooting, though they primarily handle external expressions and may refer for internal issues. They offer this service for dogs that need relief, often including it with baths, ear cleaning, and nail trims.

What services does Petco offer?

Petco Services

• Grooming.
• Training.
• Vet Services.
• Vaccinations.
• Adoptions.
• Self-Serve Dog Wash.
• Find Your Store.

Who will express dog glands?

The first sign that a dog has issues with their anal glands is scooting or dragging their butt across the floor. You may also see them biting around their anal area or showing signs of pain. You can manually express your dog's anal glands at home, or your veterinarian can perform the procedure in their office.

Where can I get my dog's glands emptied?

You can get your dog's anal glands expressed at a veterinarian's office (best for infections or concerns), professional dog groomers (often part of grooming packages), or sometimes at pet supply stores like Petco, but always confirm if they offer it and consider a vet if there's pain or blockage. 

Do groomers normally express glands?

Groomers typically perform external anal gland expression, meaning that they put pressure on the outside of the glands to push the fluid out.

How to Express Dog's Anal Glands - Veterinarian Recommended Way (GRAPHIC)

How much does it cost to have dog glands expressed?

If your dog's anal gland expression isn't something you feel comfortable doing, you may opt to call an animal care professional like a dog groomer or a veterinarian to perform the service. Dog grooming costs can land somewhere between $30 and $90, depending on the breed and size of your dog, and may include expression.

Can Petco express glands?

We offer an array of services from baths and haircuts to solution-oriented, personalized packages that can be booked online or through the Petco app. Full-Service Bath for Dogs: This includes a gentle shampoo, blow-dry, ear cleaning, gland expression, 15-minute brush-out, scented spritz and nail trim.

Do dogs feel better after expressing glands?

Yes, dogs generally feel significantly better and experience immediate relief after their anal glands are expressed, especially if they were full or impacted, but if they seem to be in more pain afterward, it indicates a problem like infection or inflammation that needs veterinary attention. Full glands cause discomfort, leading to scooting, licking, or biting at the area, and emptying them resolves this pressure and prevents infections.
 

What comes out when dog glands are expressed?

Dogs and cats have scent glands, called anal glands, on either side of the anus, similar to skunks. The purpose of these glands is to produce a foul-smelling brown fishy-smelling discharge that gets squeezed out every time your dog or cat strains to poop.

What breeds of dogs need their glands expressed?

Breeds that commonly need regular anal gland expression are generally the smaller ones. For example, Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Toy Poodles, Bichon Frisés, Lhasa Apsos, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are frequently cited as needing help emptying their glands.

How painful is dog gland removal for dogs?

Basically, glands are small, sac-like structures near the anus. They produce and secrete a foul-smelling fluid used for scent marking and communication between dogs. Undoubtedly, anal gland removal dogs can be uncomfortable and painful; the decision to remove them should not be taken lightly.

Is Petco closing in 2025?

Yes, Petco is closing about 25 underperforming stores in 2025, following a similar number of closures in 2024, as part of a strategic move to focus on profitable growth, reevaluate their physical footprint, and invest in services, with specific locations listed in states like Arizona, California, DC, Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

What age do dogs start having gland issues?

Anal gland cancer usually occurs in older dogs, with the average age of onset is 10.8 years of age. For this reason, our practice recommends that dogs aged over 5 years old should have a rectal exam (if tolerated) at least annually to examine the anal glands.

Can a dog accidentally express their own glands?

Because anal sacs can be accidentally expressed by an excited or nervous pet, you don't need to call us over a one-off errant anal sac expression. But, if your pet is scooting or you're smelling anal sac material, it's best if you give us a call.

Does pet insurance cover gland expression?

Elective Procedures

If a procedure isn't deemed medically necessary, your pet insurance will not cover it. This exclusion usually applies to spaying and neutering as well as cosmetic procedures. Other common exclusions include: Anal gland expression or removal.

How long can a dog go without expressing glands?

The frequency of expressing your dog's anal glands depends on their individual health and activity level. While some dogs may never require manual expression, others might need help every few weeks. Signs that your dog's anal glands need attention include scooting, excessive licking, or a fishy odor.

Where can I take my dog to get their glands expressed?

You can get your dog's anal glands expressed at a veterinarian's office (best for infections or concerns), professional dog groomers (often part of grooming packages), or sometimes at pet supply stores like Petco, but always confirm if they offer it and consider a vet if there's pain or blockage. 

How can you tell if your dog has swollen glands?

It's typically hard for a pet parent to find these tiny lymph nodes when they are of normal size. However, as lymph nodes become swollen, pet parents may feel a noticeable bulge in the skin when playing with or petting their dogs.

What happens if blocked glands go untreated?

When left untreated, these blockages can cause the glands to atrophy, become scarred, and eventually shut down.

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