Anal sacs or anal glands are located just inside the anus at the 4 o'clock and 8 o'clock positions. Small ducts pass from the sacs to the rectum and empty just inside the anal opening. The glands inside of the sac produce an aromatic liquid that is typically expressed during defecation. As dogs age, this liquid can start to have a thicker consistency, which is more difficult to express during normal defection.

We are providing curb-side service. Communication with clients and doctors will be largely conducted via phone, Zoom meeting, FaceTime or another platform. Please be patient with the process in order to keep everyone safe. Permanent relief of chronic anal gland conditions such as impaction, infection, and abscessation can be achieved with surgery. Anal glands are a pair of scent glands located along the side of the anus.

By Dr. William E. Schultz, DVM.

Back to All Medical Library Posts. Figure 1 The anal sac duct opens into the edge of the anus. The anal sacs and ducts are closely associated with the anal sphincter muscle. When the anal sacs are expressed, fluid will leak from the ducts. There are multiple reasons why the anal sacs may become diseased.