
Nail trimming and anal gland expression are two of the most important routine maintenance services your dog needs, and two of the most commonly neglected. Overgrown nails can alter your dog's gait, cause joint pain, and lead to serious orthopedic issues over time. Impacted or overfull anal glands are uncomfortable, prone to infection, and can become a significant health problem if left unaddressed.
At The Platinum Pooch, both services are performed by Donna M. Walko, a Certified Veterinary Technician with over 50 years of experience. Most grooming salons treat these as quick add-ons performed by whoever is available. At The Platinum Pooch they are performed with the same care, precision, and clinical knowledge that Donna brings to every service. When a Certified Vet Tech is handling your dog's nails and glands, you are getting a level of attention and expertise that most salons simply cannot offer.



Most dogs need their nails trimmed every four to six weeks. Dogs who walk frequently on hard surfaces like pavement may naturally wear their nails down somewhat, but the majority of pet dogs still need regular professional trimming to keep their nails at a safe and comfortable length. If you can hear your dog's nails clicking on the floor, they are already overdue.
Anal gland expression is typically needed every four to eight weeks depending on the dog. Some dogs express their glands naturally during bowel movements and rarely need assistance. Others, particularly smaller breeds, need regular manual expression to prevent impaction and infection. Signs that your dog may need their glands expressed include scooting along the floor, excessive licking or biting at the rear end, a strong fishy odor, or visible discomfort when sitting. If you are unsure how often your dog needs this service, give us a call and we will help you figure out the right schedule.

Nail trims and anal gland expression may seem straightforward, but there is more to both than meets the eye. Cutting a nail too short can cause pain and bleeding. Missing the quick on a dark nail requires experience and a steady hand. Improperly expressed anal glands can cause injury or infection. These are not tasks where you want someone guessing.
Donna's background as a Certified Veterinary Technician means she approaches both services with clinical precision. She knows the anatomy, she knows the signs of underlying issues, and she knows when something she finds during a routine appointment warrants a call to your veterinarian. It is the kind of thoroughness that makes a real difference in your dog's health and comfort over the long term.


Start by filling out the form on our website. Let us know a little about your dog and what you’re looking for with Dog Grooming. It helps us understand your needs and get things started smoothly.

After we review your info, we’ll reach out to find a time that works well for you and your dog. We’ll walk through what to expect and make sure everything feels like a good fit for Dog Grooming.

Once your visit is scheduled, you can rest easy. The team at The Platinum Pooch LLC will take great care of your dog with attentive, gentle, and dependable Dog Grooming.