Ask the vet sample question and answer (real question from K. Garrett)


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My dog has developed an eye discharge mainly on 1 eye. She has always had bloodshot eyes and I'm wondering if it will clear on its own? It doesn't seem to bother her much but I am concerned.

Email reply

There are a couple of reasons why dogs get an eye discharge.

1. allergy - she can be allergic to something in the environment. Generally if this is the case, both eyes are affected and the discharge is watery and clear and it tends to be itchy. Allergies normally present with other signs as well eg itchy skin, sneezing etc.
2. conjunctivitis - caused by a virus or bacteria. It often starts off as a clear discharge which then gets pus-y. Eye ointment or drops are needed to clear it up (see your local vet).
3. trauma - dogs shove their faces into grass/plants often in search for new smells so they sometimes get a jab in the eye from grass seeds, twigs etc. This will also result in an eye discharge. Your local vet can rule out whether an ulcer has developed in the eye or not as a result of the offending jab in the eye. If there is an ulcer in the eye, the dog will normally have a squint in that eye.
I'd say wait a day or two to see if the situation improves. Definitely take the dog in to your local vet if it doesn't or starts getting worse.

sincerely,
Dr Lilian

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I am currently looking for a Chihuahua puppy to purchase online because there are none available in my immediate area of Minnesota. Many Breeders say the will ship the puppy via air through pet shipping services such as "delta pet first" etc...I have read briefly about the conditions the animal will be subjected to, which seem ok, the "pet cabin" is air pressure and Temperature regulated and they seem to be treated with care, and the airline and handlers have to comply with the animal welfare act. The breeders will not ship the puppy until it is 12 weeks of age,to make sure it is healthy and weaned from it's mother.I am stil a bit worried though. There are many breeders in Missouri which would be a short flight away. SO...my question for YOU is: What is your oppinion of putting animals such as dogs (which are so humanlike as opposed to other animals) through an air flight, especially such a SMALL and FRAGILE breed of dog and at such a young age? The breeder recommends visting the vet within 3 days after the flight to get the puppy checked, to make sure the flight did'nt affect it. Have you ever cared for dogs in a similar situation, ever seen any health problems because of flying? ANY information you have on this would be helpful to me as It is what is hindering me from buying a pup at this moment.

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