Cleaning rectum

I would like to know how to correctly clean the rectum of my dog like they do when you bring them to the vet to get there baths, I take care of my to dogs and don't have the funds to take them in for there baths,so I have to do it my self,and I forgot what they call it this procedure ,it;s like there is a sack ,and it has to be drained or something ,please help me to understand and be able to do this myself at home Thank-you Doreen

[Jaybay]

You're talking about learning how to express the anal glands.  If your dog isn't bursting that foul fluid in the house, or dragging his rear-end on the ground to scratch the itch, then you don't need to worry about it.  Just have them checked once or twice a year at regular vet exam time.

Most dogs don't have a problem with clogged anal glands as the stool passage normally keeps them expressed.  Other dogs have a terrible time with impacted anal glands and if neglected, they can become seriously infected.

There are 2 techniques that I'm aware of to express glands, neither of which should be attempted via a description over the internet.  You really need to have your vet or a groomer show you how to do this so you don't harm the dog.  There's a definite knack to it, and it's one I have never been able to master.  :-)

[dorbels]

But they do drag  there butts and I know they don;t have worms,I guess I'll have to take them in for at least a once every 6 month bath so they can do that for them thanks for your help.The reason why I like to bath my own dogs is they really are good when it comes to vet care but I think I give them better baths thanks again

[Misfits4Me]

Just a thought....My vet charges $15 for anal sac expression....My groomer charges $5. You don't have to get a bath or grooming, you can just have the anal sacs expressed. Check around for a grooming shop and call and ask.  This will save you the extra funds.....

[jakesbride110]

If you really want to do this yourself you must be shown by someone who has good experience with expressing anal glands. If you don't know the proper way to do this you can cause the glands to burst which can be very bad. Just a quick tip, the fluid from anal glands smell very very badly! It is very hard to get the sent off if it squirts while expressing. Sorry I know that doesn't sound good. I used to express glands for the Vet I assisted in Florida and gloves didn't always protect me. Sometimes it would shoot my arm (YUCK)! I would wash many times and the scent would still be there. Anyway before you try this please talk to your Vet or the Vet Tech. on duty. They might be willing to show you, however they will probably discourage you from doing this on your own. You won't know until you ask though right. Hope all goes well! =)