Anal glands are not the top of the list of things most people talk about, but they are an essential part to your dog’s overall health. These small glands are located at “4 and 8,” just inside the anus of your pet. On most dogs, these glands are emptied when the patient has a bowel movement. Occasionally, dogs can have problems where the glands do not express properly or they get impacted, this is why your pet might “scoot.” Recently, studies have been published linking anal gland impaction with allergies. If you pet Scoots a lot, we can help.
Should I drain my dog’s anal glands at home?
It is not always recommended for owners to be doing anal glands at home. Sometimes if they become too full, the glands can become impacted which can lead to additional concerns like rupturing of the sac. Some groomers will do anal glands, but empty them in a different way than your veterinarian would. If you think your pet is having anal gland issues, it’s always best to bring them to your veterinarian for an exam.
