Put on gloves and have paper towels, wipes, and a trash bag ready
Lift the dog’s tail and locate the anal glands at about 4 o’clock and 8 o’clock around the anus
Hold a paper towel over the area to catch fluid
Gently pinch the skin just outside each gland between thumb and forefinger
Apply light, steady pressure inward and upward toward the anus
Stop if the dog shows pain, swelling, bleeding, or if nothing comes out
Wipe the area clean immediately
Wash your hands and clean any surfaces
Contact a veterinarian or groomer if you are unsure, the glands are impacted, or the dog has recurring problems
