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Reference: McCarthy, G et al. Vet J 2007; 174:54-61
u
Swelling and/or redness around the anus
u
Pain around the anus
If the anal glands do become blocked or infected,
they will need to be expressed by a veterinarian
or someone experienced in doing it. This involves
squeezing or applying pressure to the glands to
drain the fluid build-up. This is usually done by
inserting a finger into the anus and finding the
glands or by pushing on them from the outside of
the anus. When they are blocked and/or infected
this can be a very painful process and some dogs
can require sedation. If the glands are badly
impacted or infected a vet may need to flush the
anal glands while the dog is under anaesthetic.
Once the glands are expressed and the fluid
removed, the inflammation and discomfort should
subside. If the glands are infected a course of
antibiotics is often required.
If you think that your dog may be suffering from
an anal gland problem please take them to a
veterinarian to be checked. It is also advisable to
have your vet check your dog's anal glands as part
of their routine check-up.
Anal glands are small glands that are located
under the skin on either side of the anus (at
about 4 and 8 o'clock). The glands are designed
to secrete an oily semi-liquid substance when the
dog passes faeces. The foul smelling substance
gives each dog their unique smell that they use
to mark territory and be identified by other dogs.
When the anal glands are working efficiently,
only a small amount of fluid is excreted and
humans are generally unable to smell it. Dogs
will typically excrete some anal gland fluid when
they pass faeces, urine, when meeting another
dog or when they are startled or scared.
Generally anal glands take care of themselves
but sometimes the anal glands can become
blocked or infected. If the anal glands become
blocked or they do not empty effectively, an
excess build-up of fluid can occur. This can then
lead to an infection, and if left untreated, an
abscess can form which could then rupture.
Signs of a problem with the anal glands include;
u
Scooting or rubbing/dragging their bottom
along the ground
u
Licking or chewing at the base of the tail
or around the anus in an effort to relieve the
discomfort
u
Constipation
u
In pain when passing faeces or when sitting
u
A foul smell
A Dog Owner's Guide
to Anal Glands
