Expressing Anal Glands

Is really a nasty job. I used to leave this to their handsome Vet - Dr. Kasey and their favourite groomer - Annie from APC but now, I've started to learn how to squeeze my furball's anal glands. (after soooo many years)

A little bit of anatomy - Anal glands are two small grapes' sized sacs near the anus. Some said is approximately 5 o'clock and 7 o'clock positions in relation to the anal circumference, some said 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock. I just feel them and it can be easily palpated when is full. Anal glands secretes a lubricant, enables a dog to expel the contents of the rectum. Every dogs has got their own smell and that mark its territory and identify each other. (you saw some dog smelling each other butt to say "hello"?)

Is important to squeeze the glands out when it is full, to prevent them from scooting and of course, infection. Smoochie is a smart boy, he can express the glands by himself whenever he poos. Unlike Twistie, he needs help every 2-3 weeks and if the glands is not cleared, he will start scooting and I will need to send him to Dr. Kasey, anyway, he sees the vet every 2-3 weeks for follow up and the charges is around $17. The staff at Springside was kind enough to me how to squeeze the glands out, to prevent another round of infection and it was tedious ... and very sinky.

Anyway, here are the steps I found online(I amended a little) :
-Secure the dog in a small room.
-Gather several 3-4 damp paper towels
-Place rubber gloves on.
-Face dogs rear away from you.
-Lift dogs tail, rolling it over to expose rear end.
-Locate anal glands (near anus at approximately 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock)
-Pinch forward and squeeze upward to push out the fluid, gently.
-Use paper towel to absorb the foul fluid or pasty discharge.
-Repeat process until glands are empty.
-Once you are done wash dog's rear end to reduce odor.
-Note: if possible this is advisable to do while bathing dog and wear gloves!