Anal glands, located on either side of your pet’s anal opening, were used in less domesticated times, for dogs to mark their territory. Nowadays they rarely use them and about the only time you will experience their pungent odoriferous smell is when they have become frightened, startled or when are trying to clean/express them. Some dogs will lick or scoot if infected, others will not show much indication there is a problem. In severe cases the dogs can go lame in the rear and vets will treat for an injury, without realizing it is an anal gland problem. This infection needs to be address before it goes systemic. In addition, our nutritional consultant feel there is a direct link between anal gland issues and reoccurring tonsillitis.