Anal Glads

I know it's not a pleasant topic but we need to keep our dogs healthy. So if your dog has anal gland problems you probably get the anal glands expressed(emptied) every time you go to the groomer or the Vet. Did you know that that may not be helping?

A healthy dog empties the anal glands naturally when they go to the bathroom. If your dog isn't emptying their anal glands normally, it's important for you and your Vet to discover a cause. Groomers should not be doing medical procedures on your pet.

So how do you keep them healthy? If you see your dog scooting their rear end on the floor, their glands may be full. Make an appointment with your Vet to find out why the glands aren't emptying normally. Ask your Vet to show you how to check to see if the the glands are full.

This is Dr Karen Becker's video about anal glands.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yA9SeHAEyQ4&feature=player_embedded

Your holiday pet list

Here are a few things to add to your already busy holiday season. If you are prepared you will have a safer holiday.

• Take a few pictures of your pets. Your pet could get loose when people open doors, when you stop for a break at a rest area, or when your pet sitter comes to your house. A current picture will help your search. Seriously, pick up your camera or phone and take one now.

• If you're traveling- take a few minutes to do a google search for vets where you are going. Call them and find out what they do for emergencies. Add the phone number and address to your phone or put a copy in your suitcase.

• Make sure that your pet is wearing an ID tag on their collar with a current phone number.

• If your pet has a microchip call to see that your contact information is current. Microchips don't hold the information. The person who scans the microchip gets an account number and then needs to call for contact information.

• Check your pets medication and make sure that you have enough to last through the holidays. Give yourself a few extra days worth. You don't want to run out of medication in a snow storm the day after Christmas.

Have a safe holiday season!