Teary eye question....

[Sher]

I read somewhere online that white dogs like Bichons and Poodles that have staining from tears have some sort of bacterial infection and that it can be contagious to other dogs.... has anyone heard of this? Lily plays with a dear little Bichon that has a bad case of staining. Right now he just went on some medication to help clear it up. Now I am wondering if he is really contagious? I sure don't want Lily to be catching this tear staining stuff. She has been playing with this dog for about 3 or 4 months and hasn't caught anything yet. Any thoughts on this? Thanks for any replies.

 

[lizzybeth727]

I've never heard of that.

What medicine is he on??

 

[PoodleMommy]

I have never heard this before.

Tear staining can be from something as simple as the food the dog is fed.

Did the owner tell you there is some underlying medical issue?

 

[Sher]

From what I understand the Bichon is on some sort of powdered antibiotic. Her vet told her to just put a "pinch" on his food every day. He has no other underlying health problems.

I was researching online trying to find something to get rid of the stains under his eyes that she could use and I came across the bacterial thing and the possibility that it could be contagious.... so far I can't seem to find it again, darn it! Anyway, it just concerned me.... However, I really don't think I have to be that concerned if after all this time, she has not gotten anything... and they REALLY get into a good wrestling match! LOL...

 

[lizzybeth727]

My guess is the meds the vet gave were some kind of suppliment that somehow helps clear tear stains. I don't think he would prescribe "a pinch" of antibiotic.

 

[wishbone]

My friend use Maltese Tear Stain Remover...

 

[Doberluv]

I agree Lizzybeth. A pinch of anitibiotic everyday? An antibiotic every day forever? That would never do. LOL.

It is quite common in little dogs to have what is called over active tear ducts. And they produce a lot of tears. Dirt, dust and stuff sticks to the wet and then dries and it gets crusty and yucky. If the dog's corneas aren't red and the eys aren't goopy with whitish, yellowish goo, I doubt that it's an infection. Or if it was, it's probably cleared up. If your little dog hasn't caught anything, then I'd be inclined to think it's okay.

Dogs low to the ground can also get a lot of dust and minute particles of stuff from the floor/ground into their eyes which can irritate. It can be a food or airborne allergy. I think your friend should get a 2nd opinion.

My Jose` (Chi) has over active tear ducts. The vet said that the surgery to fix it often comes with complications and more trouble than it's worth. So, we just wipe under his eyes all the time. It doesn't seem to bother him unless it gets crusted and hasn't been picked off. (gross, huh)