Expressing is a procedure whereby external pressure is applied to the bladder to help void the contents. Bladder control is sometimes diminished, if not completely lost, when a dog becomes disabled. If the bladder is not emptied several times a day, it can lead to serious infection or bladder stones that may have to be removed surgically. Should your pet have trouble emptying his bladder, it is important that you ask your vet to show you how to express the bladder.

How often should I express?

There are different views on the frequency of expressing the bladder. Some veterinarians will recommend that you express the bladder only twice a day, while others recommend four times. It also depends on how much water your dog drinks during the day. The best answer is to start by expressing your dog’s bladder once every three to four hours during the day and just before bedtime. Adjust this pattern as your experience grows.

Why does my dog leak?

In some cases, a disabled dog may have the function of the bladder but not the control over it. The dog may leak urine throughout the day. Expressing the bladder more frequently may help reduce the leakage and decrease the odds of crystals forming in the bladder.

How do I express my dog?

In most cases, expressing a dog is quite easy, but it can be intimidating at first. The thought of holding your dog and squeezing down on him seems like it may cause discomfort. However, if done in a steady, slow motion with a consistent amount of pressure, it will not hurt your pet. Your dog will become accustomed to this new handling of him, and after several attempts, he will usually start cooperating. Below is a sketch of a dog indicating the approximate location of the bladder and the points where pressure should be applied.

For females, face the dog toward you, flatten your hands, and place them on both sides of the bladder, gently applying pressure. When she is ready to urinate, she will usually start squatting as she would when urinating on her own. If not successful after applying pressure for about three to five seconds, release and start again.

For males, follow the same procedure for females, but hold the dog facing away from you. There are two reasons for doing it this way. First, you will get a better feel for his bladder in this position, and second, he will urinate away from you, rather than toward you.

It is usually best to have your vet show you exactly how to express the bladder. Proper voiding of the bladder is very important for your pet’s health.

The information provided in this article is not meant to replace the advice of your pet’s veterinarian, but rather to help guide you through resolving some of the questions that are frequently asked by owners of newly disabled pets.