Can a Recent Grooming Session Cause Diarrhea and Excessive Licking in Dogs?

Dear VetBabble,

Help! My dog has diarrhea and has been excessively licking his bottom since our recent trip to the groomers. Could this be related?

What an unsettling situation for both you and your four-legged friend. There could be several potential causes for these symptoms, and while it may be tempting to establish a direct connection to your recent grooming appointment, we must remember that correlation doesn’t always mean causation. Issues such as hemorrhagic gastroenteritis could be at play as well. If the symptoms persist, it’s crucial to seek professional help immediately.

Understanding Diarrhea in Dogs

The occurrence of diarrhea in dogs can indicate various health disturbances, ranging from a simple upset stomach to more severe conditions. In some cases, diarrhea might be a side effect of food changes, stress, or certain medications. However, blood in the stool raises immediate concerns. To help pet owners understand this matter better, our article “Why Does My Dog Have Diarrhea?” breaks down some of the common causes of diarrhea in dogs.

It’s essential for pet owners to understand when to worry and take immediate action. According to our guide “Diarrhea in Dogs: When to Worry“, consistent diarrhea with visible blood warrants prompt attention.

Anal Glands Concerns

Your dog’s excessive licking of his rear end could be due to discomfort from his anal glands. These glands, located on either side of a dog’s anus, can occasionally become impacted or infected. To provide more context about this issue, I’d recommend our article titled “Anal Glands: What Are They and Do I Need to Express Them?“. This article will help you understand why dogs have these glands and their function.

There is a possibility that your dog’s anal glands were expressed during grooming, and if done improperly, it might cause some discomfort. However, this is merely conjecture, and it’s always best to consult with your groomer to confirm if they conducted an anal gland expression. Regarding the question and explanation of “How to Express Dog’s Anal Glands“, it’s generally best to let a professional handle this task to prevent unwitting harm.

Final Thoughts

Dealing with your pet’s health issues can be a stressful experience, and it’s essential to act thoughtfully. Your pet’s symptoms might be indeed related to the grooming, or they could be indicating another underlying health issue like haemorrhagic gastroenteritis. If your dog’s discomfort and diarrhea persist, I would strongly suggest making an appointment with your veterinarian immediately.

Remember, our furry friends are part of our family, and their health should always be a priority. Only a trained professional can correctly diagnose and treat your pet. So, it’s always best to consult a trusted veterinarian when in doubt!