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My 7 yr old otherwise very healthy Chow / Sheppard Mix - hi ...


Sent to Pet Experts April 22, 2006 7:06 p.m.

My 7 yr old otherwise very healthy Chow / Sheppard Mix - hi seyes have been tearing for the last 4 days . . ?

Optional Information:
Age: 7; Male; Breed: Chow/Shepard Mix

Already Tried:
Just wiping it off - I just changed his food from Science Diet to Nutro (it is suppose to be healthier for him) but combined both fora week before going to Nutro only.
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Status: Closed   Value: $9   
Info Request
April 22, 2006 7:07 p.m. (1 minute and 15 seconds later)
REPLIED to Info Request Check Mark

A couple of questions please:

Any nasal discharge?
Any coughing?
Is he exposed to other dogs often (dog parks, kennels, etc.)?
Do the eyes look red or irritated?

Dr. Amanda

__________________
Dr. Amanda
Small Animal Veterinarian
Special interest in canine and feline behavior.
PictureDr. Amanda  -- Veterinarian -- 100% Positive Feedback on 75 Pet Accepts
Small Animal and Emergency Medicine
Reply to Dr. Amanda
Sent April 22, 2006 7:14 p.m. (6 minutes and 38 seconds later)

No nasal discharge
No coughing
I have 3 other dogs at home, who NEVER come in contact with any other dogs. They stay at home unless I am takin gthem tothe vet. I have a pet sitter that stays overnight when I travel.
His eyes do not look red or irritated, his twin shows no symptoms. Sammy was just out in the yard eating grass but has not thrown up. ??
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
April 22, 2006 7:26 p.m. (11 minutes and 48 seconds later)
ACCEPTED Check Mark

Thank you for the quick response.

Well, at this point I am suspicious of either allergies or an irritation that has caused some excessive tearing. Occasionally, the tear ducts can become blocked, but to be in both eyes is unusual as well as at his age.

I would take him in for a quick vet exam. They may see other symptoms with the examination that you can't see without an opthalmoscope. I routinely perform a simple dye test to check for any abrasions of the cornea with a test of the tear duct drainage as well. These are relatively inexpensive and easy tests to perform.

If everything is normal on the tests, I might try a topical antiinflammatory or even just routine eye washes and recheck in a few day. Depending on where you live, the pollens and grasses can cause irritation that can result in more tearing and clear nasal discharge. Your vet may also recommend an oral antihistamine if they suspect this.

I hope everything turns out well for your pup! Let me know if you have more questions or concerns.

Dr. Amanda

Edited by DrAmanda on April 22 2006 at 7:26pm


__________________
Dr. Amanda
Small Animal Veterinarian
Special interest in canine and feline behavior.
PictureDr. Amanda  -- Veterinarian -- 100% Positive Feedback on 75 Pet Accepts
Small Animal and Emergency Medicine
Reply to Dr. Amanda
Sent April 22, 2006 7:47 p.m. (21 minutes and 19 seconds later)

Should I take him to an emergency room or wait till my Vet can see him on Mon?
Customer (name blocked for privacy)
Answer
April 22, 2006 11:30 p.m. (3 hours and 42 minutes later)

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PictureDr. Amanda  -- Veterinarian -- 100% Positive Feedback on 75 Pet Accepts
Small Animal and Emergency Medicine

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