Important decision to make, need BPO advice/help

[Boobearsmom]

I posted before about Boo's anal gland "issues".  Well, she went to the vet a couple of weeks ago and he expressed them, said they were overflowing and to come back for a follow-up.  We did that last night and the vet said that they were a little full again but not as bad as last time.  So, here comes the decision part.  I need to either have them removed or express them once a month (at least).  The way her glands are set, they're too far in for a bowel movement to clean them out so they're going to have to be manually cleaned out.  Now, I'm going to readily admit I'm a HUGE wuss and just wouldn't be able to do it, so I would take her to the vet and pay the $10 a month and have them do it.  But at the same time I feel guilty about doing that to her once a month because when they did it last night, she struggled and looked soooo unhappy.  The vet would also refer us to someone else because he doesn't do that surgery.  I'm really upset because I have no idea what to do.  There is the possibility that the surgery will leave her stool incontinent, although her vet said he's never personally seen that happen.  So I'm asking you guys for help.  What do you think I should do?

[longshadowfarms]

I'd get at least a second vet opinion in person, maybe even a third.  I post on another board that has one vet that is the moderator, two others that post from time to time.  If you'd like, I can cross post over there and see what they think.  I'm not at all qualified to give my opinion beyond that!

[VHM]

Hello...

We have a Dandie Dinmont Terrier who also was having that problem and once
we put him on Prescription Diet Canine W/D dog food (can only be purchased
at the vets office), the problem totally ended.  This food is very high in fiber, as
such, it goes through the dogs system very nicely.  The stools also basically
fall apart if disturbed in the grass....
Most of the time he cannot even make it to his spot in the yard to deficate, it comes out as he is running over there. 
He has been a very happy guy since he has been on that food.....
His glands are totally empty when he is checked...
Try it and let us know how it is working on your pup....

Regards...
VHM

[RedyreRottweilers]

I would be interested in what you are feeding the dog?

And VHM is right, A high bulk diet can help a lot of dogs with this issue.

[Boobearsmom]

I would be interested in what you are feeding the dog?

And VHM is right, A high bulk diet can help a lot of dogs with this issue.

She's on Blue Buffalo Chicken and Brown Rice.  She gets 3 cups + 3 tablespoons of yogurt in the morning and 3 cups + 3/4 cup bran at night.  She was having runny stool issues and they've firmed up considerably, but the vet seems to think the real issue is the position that the glands are in.  I could take her for another opinion and have another vet check to see where they are.  He said her's are farther in and deeper.

[GR8DAME]

I would also seek another vet's opinion before making any commitment. Surgery in a non-emergency situation is too hard on the dog and on you finanacially and emotionally to just take one vet's word for it IMO.
Stella

[VHM]

Hello....

I cannot tell you what to do, however, if you want my opinion, if it was
my dog....I would take the dog off of every food and treats you have her on at
this moment.   I would go to the vet and let him express her glands one
more time....Then I would  immediately put the dog on the W/D formula.   
There are also dog biscuits called Canine Treats (BLUE LABEL ON FRONT OF BAG)
that you can give her...ONLY the bag with blue writing on it....
these you can give as many as you like to her for a treat because
they also are very high in fiber....you should see results within 1-2 weeks.
see what results transpire from this time to the next time she has her glands expelled.  This also will be the least emotional and non-invasive plan of action for your dog....

Good Luck and let us know how everything works out...
Regards....
VHM...MIKE

[Terri]

Years ago I had a lab that had to have the gland removed. It kept getting infected. But that was just one, not both. I would try the food first, then if need be do the surgery because it will be less stressful in the long run.JMO.
Terri

[kristi]

My mom's one lab has the same problem.  His glands need to be drained, but I don't think it's quite as frequent...
I agree, diet could help improve the situation - but I'd definitely get 1-2 more opinions before any surgical procedure was performed.
Keep us posted-
-k.

[VHM]

Hello ....

Just a little note....I saw in your dogs profile that you wrote she
loves rawhide....you probably arent aware of it, however,that is one of the
worst things you could give her....it can block up her intestines
quickly, especially if she bites off large pieces.....ano ther note, in case
your're not aware, do not give her GREENIES....wh en they get wet from the
dogs saliva or any fluids, including water, they expand and will cause many
problems.....t he kong with peanut butter is an excellent and very safe choice as
long as it is big enough for her not to swallow......
Just tryin to help ya ...... : )
 
Regards...
VHM