ANAL GLANDS

The anal glands are like two sacs, placed at the 9 & 3 o'clock position of the dogs' rectum. The function of the anal glands is to place personalised scent on the faeces as they are passed out like a marker for other dogs (similar to that of a skunk). The anal glands have an exit, which can be blocked off concurrent with worms or insufficient ventilation (usually in heavy-coated breeds) reaching the rectum area.

  Signs of the anal glands being blocked are chewing of the tail, licking the area, scooting along the ground (like they have worms). If the anal glands are blocked it can impact and abscess and is very painful.

  To clean the anal glands, place your index finger and thumb just below the 3 & 9 o'clock mark on your dogs rectum and simultaneously squeeze in, together, up and back. It is advisable that you have a large wad of cotton wool in your hands and that you stand back out of "firing range". If the dog has an abscess, the dog will need to be put on antibiotics.

  Personally, I have never had to 'unblock' the anal glands of any of my saints. But I have heard others who have had to do this to their dogs' say that it is a smell similar to that of a can of "tuna gone wrong."

 I have never had the need to 'empty' the anal glands of my saints on a regular basis. I hope this answers in queries any body has. Of course, if you are not confident of performing this task, you can always take your dog to the vet to have him/her to perform the task. 

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