Anal gland expression has been a standard grooming service for years, but as we learn more about pets' health needs, the question arises: should it be a routine part of every grooming session? Understanding when and why anal gland expression is necessary can help groomers make informed decisions about offering this service. Let's explore the facts and myths, the groomer's role, and how to approach anal gland care for your pet clients.

What are Anal Glands? 

Anal glands, also known as anal sacs, are small, pear-shaped glands located on either side of a dog’s anus. They secrete a distinct-smelling fluid that serves as a means of communication between dogs, allowing them to mark their territory and identify one another. Under normal circumstances, these glands naturally empty during bowel movements as the pressure from passing stool presses against the sacs. This process helps the dog release the fluid and maintain a balanced scent trail. 

Recognizing Anal Gland Problems 

While healthy anal glands empty naturally, issues arise when they don’t. Common in small breeds, older dogs, and those with limited activity, unemptied glands can lead to discomfort, swelling, or infections. If left untreated, the situation can escalate into abscesses or ruptures, causing significant pain.

Signs Groomers Should Watch For:

• Scooting or dragging hindquarters

• Excessive licking or biting at the anal area

• Foul odor from the rear

• Swelling near the anus

• Difficulty or discomfort sitting

During grooming sessions, groomers are uniquely positioned to observe these signs. Asking pet owners about similar behaviors at home can help ensure comprehensive care.

The Stages of Anal Gland Issues

Understanding the progression of anal gland problems can help you identify when a pet needs professional intervention:

• Impaction: When fluid isn’t expelled properly, it thickens and blocks the anal sac opening. You may notice swelling or discomfort in the pet.

• Infection: Impactions can lead to bacterial growth, resulting in painful infections. Pets may display signs of irritation, such as scooting, licking or biting at the area.

• Abscessation: Untreated infections can result in abscesses filled with pus or bloody fluid, causing visible swelling.

• Rupture: If an abscess isn’t treated, it may rupture, creating an open wound near the anus. This requires immediate veterinary attention to prevent further complications.

How to Safely Perform External Anal Gland Expressions 

Groomers focus on only external anal gland expression because internal expression requires specialized training and tools. Internal expression, which involves inserting a lubricated finger into the rectum to manually empty the glands, should be performed by veterinarians or trained professionals to ensure it’s done safely and effectively.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Your Supplies: Before beginning, gather the necessary items: gloves, paper towels and a mild cleaning solution. Wearing gloves is essential to protect yourself from bacteria. Witch Hazel is a natural way to clean the area  and to reduce odor.

2. Position the Pet Safely: Ensure the pet is secured and comfortable. Depending on the pet’s size and temperament, you may need assistance from another person to gently restrain the pet. We recommend performing this task in the bathtub for easier cleanup, as it allows you to quickly rinse both the dog and the area in case the glands spray.

3. Locate the Anal Glands: The anal glands are positioned at the 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock locations around the dog’s anus. Using your thumb and forefinger, gently feel for the small, firm sacs beneath the skin.

4. Apply Gentle Pressure: Once you’ve located the glands, apply gentle, steady pressure using your thumb and forefinger. Squeeze toward the anus to help expel the fluid. Be cautious to avoid pressing too hard, as this can cause pain or injury.

5. Clean the Area Thoroughly: After expression, use a paper towel to wipe away any fluid on the dog or use water and a gentle shampoo to cleanse the area. This helps reduce the risk of infection and keeps the pet more comfortable.

Safety Tips

• Use Proper Restraint Techniques: Always ensure the pet is secure and calm before starting. An anxious or reactive pet may thrash or bite if uncomfortable, so have a plan for safe restraint.

• Always Wear Gloves: Wearing gloves is essential for hygiene and safety. Anal gland fluid has a strong odor and contains bacteria that can cause infections.

• Be Mindful of Your Body Positioning: Position yourself in a way that allows you to maintain control of the pet without risking injury to yourself. Avoid leaning too far over the pet or placing yourself in a vulnerable position where you could be kicked or bitten.

• Squeeze the Anal Gland Gently: If you squeeze too hard, incorrectly or in the wrong area you can cause the bursting of the anal gland or cause it to rupture. 

When to Refer to a Vet

Recurring issues, visible swelling, or signs of infection require veterinary attention. Conditions like abscesses, ruptures, or chronic impactions often stem from underlying medical concerns, such as allergies or obesity, which only a veterinarian can address.

Common Myths About Anal Glands

Myth 1: Groomers should always express anal glands.
Fact: Routine expression isn’t necessary for every pet and can cause irritation or dependency.

Myth 2: Anal gland issues are solely a grooming concern.
Fact: Many problems are linked to medical conditions that require veterinary care.

The Groomer’s Role in Anal Gland Care? 

Pet owners often request anal gland expression during grooming, but its necessity varies. Groomers can help by identifying external signs of discomfort and addressing them through optional services while referring deeper issues to veterinarians.

Some groomers provide external expression as an add-on service, while others defer entirely to veterinarians to ensure serious health concerns are properly managed. The right approach depends on the pet’s health, owner's preferences, and the groomer’s expertise.

Providing Anal Gland Expression as a Grooming Service

Rather than including anal gland expression in every grooming session, consider offering it as an optional add-on. This ensures pets receive tailored care without unnecessary procedures, protects their health, and creates an opportunity to enhance your revenue through value-added services. Add-ons can be a valuable revenue stream, helping you maximize the value of each grooming appointment.

In Summary

Anal gland expression is not a one-size-fits-all service. By recognizing the signs of anal gland issues, providing external expression only when necessary, and collaborating with pet owners and veterinarians, groomers can deliver customized care that prioritizes pets’ well-being and supports business growth.