shampoo & dog grooming

Question
Hi Doreen, I have heard that human shampoo should not be used on dogs. Is
that true and if so, why? Also, what exactly is anal gland expression? When I
bring my dogs in for professional grooming every 6 weeks or so, it is included in
the grooming package.  

Answer
Genevieve,
 You can use human shampoo in a pinch but I wouldn't suggest it for every bath. Plus generally it's meant towards the use of baby shampoos because they are so mild
that it really won't hurt the dog. I typically use J&J baby
shampoo for their heads because it is so mild and doesn't hurt their eyes. Most adult shampoos have to many chemicals in them that will dry out the oils in the dogs skin and fur.
 Anal gland expression is not a procedure for groomers to
be doing. It should be done by a vet and a vet only. It has
been outlawed in most states for groomers to do this procedure so please check it out in your state. If done incorrectly it can hurt the dog and cause some major damage.
I won't even do it to my own dogs. What it is is a build up
of secretion. The best way to describe it would be to think of it like a pimple that needs to get squeezed. It's
a gland that gets clogged and needs to be released.
Like I said earlier I would check into it. I know in my state of MA we groomers are not allowed to touch them.
I hope I have been of some help. Good luck and God Bless.
Doreen