Anal Gland Expression/Ear Plucking

There are several reasons why groomers should not perform anal gland expression:

• It is not necessary for most dogs. Dogs typically express their anal glands naturally when they defecate. If you see your dog scooting on the ground or licking their anus excessively, it may be a sign that their anal glands need to be expressed, but this is relatively rare.

• Groomers may not be properly trained. Expressing anal glands can be a delicate procedure, and groomers may not have the proper training or experience to do it safely.

• There is a risk of injury. If the anal glands are expressed too forcefully, it can damage the glands or cause them to rupture. This can lead to infection, pain, and other health problems.

• It can make the problem worse. Expressing the anal glands too often can weaken the muscles that control them, making it more difficult for the dog to express them naturally in the future.

If you are concerned that your dog's anal glands need to be expressed, it is best to take them to a veterinarian. Veterinarians are trained in how to express anal glands safely and effectively. They can also check for any underlying medical problems that may be causing the problem.

Likewise, there are a number of reasons why groomers should not perform ear plucking:

• Ear plucking is painful. The skin inside the ear canal is very delicate, and plucking the hair can cause micro-tears that can be painful for the dog. It can also lead to inflammation and infection.

• Ear plucking is not necessary for most dogs. Healthy ears are self-cleaning, and the hair in the ear canal actually helps to trap dirt and debris, preventing it from traveling deeper into the ear.

• Ear plucking can increase the risk of ear infections. By damaging the skin in the ear canal, ear plucking can create an entry point for bacteria. This is especially true in dogs with floppy ears, which can trap moisture and bacteria.

• Ear plucking can cause other problems, such as hematomas (blood blisters) and aural stenosis (narrowing of the ear canal).

There are a few exceptions to the rule that groomers should not perform ear plucking. For example, dogs with certain breeds, such as Poodles and Schnauzers, may grow hair that is too thick and can block the ear canal. These dogs may need to have their ears plucked occasionally, but it should be done by a veterinarian or experienced groomer.