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| source: greatpetcare.com |
If you have a dog with a light-coloured coat, chances are you have noticed a dark discolouration in the fur surrounding the animal's eyes. This is a clear indication of dog tear stains, a common issue in numerous breeds, particularly those with white or light-coloured coats. This isn't anything to worry about, but before you decide to get and use a pet eye stain remover, it's best to consult with a vet.
What Are Dog Tear Stains?
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Dog tear stains are the result of too many tears being produced. This is also known as "epiphora". Normally, tears flow out of the eyes through a duct and into the nose. But if this duct gets blocked or doesn't develop properly, the tears end up overflowing from the eyes instead.
These excess tears then settle on the fur around the eyes and often give a dark brown or reddish appearance. The rusty colour is usually caused by a waste by-product called porphyrin, which comes from the breakdown of red blood cells. It's no surprise that dog breeds with light-coloured coats, like the Bichon Frise or Maltese, tend to have the most noticeable tear stains.
Different Causes of Dog Tear Stains
• Ingrown hair or eyelashes - if your dog's eyes tear up frequently, it could be due to hair or eyelashes that have become trapped in the tear ducts.
• Allergies - changes in seasons or even the water your dog drinks can introduce allergens that cause excessive tear production.
• Shallow eye sockets- some dog breeds have naturally sunken eye sockets and shorter noses, which can result in more tears.
• Blocked tear drainage holes - also known as puncta, these drainage holes can become blocked due to previous infections or excess scar tissue, preventing tears from draining properly.
In most cases, dog tear stains are common and you can treat them with suitable tear remover products. However, it's always best to consult your veterinarian to understand your dog's specific situation and the underlying cause of the tearing.
What Can You Do?
It's important to incorporate daily grooming for your pet's eyes and mouth. First, be sure to talk to your vet so they can rule out the real reasons for your pet's tear stains. Most vets recommend the use of pet eye stain remover. This type of product will clean your pet's eyes with a canine eye wash or eye drops to prevent any buildup or irritation. You can also use an eye wash wipe for a gentle clean around the eyes.
Wash the muzzle hair with dry shampoo or waterless shampoo, and consider using hydrogen peroxide for stubborn stains.
What to Get
Petway Petcare
This product offers a solution for discolouration around your dog's eyes with their Tear Stain Remover. It effectively removes tear stains, muck, and discolouration when applied with a cotton ball. Additionally, it can also eliminate stains around the mouth area. The Tear Stain Remover is pH balanced for safe use around your pet's eyes, does not contain bleach or peroxide, and requires consistent use for optimal results.
Fido's Tear Stain Remover
This is a gentle and efficient solution for eliminating tear stains in dogs and cats has been developed. Its specialized formula effectively removes both tear and saliva stains from the fur of all cat and dog breeds. It's completely free of soap, ensuring safety when used around the delicate areas of the eyes and mouth. You can also use it to cleanse skin folds.
Shear Magic Tear Stain Remover
No matter what breed of dog you have, this product is great. Many pet owners choose it for their dogs. It works excellent for dogs of all ages.
Regardless of your dog's coat colour, the Shear Magic Tear Stain Remover is a good choice as it won't affect it.
Tips to Make The Cleaning Easier
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Gently wipe the corners of your dog's eyes with a soft cloth or paper towel soaked in clean, warm water. You can do this regularly or ask your groomer for assistance. If you prefer a tear stain remover for dogs that you can use at home, give Healthy Promise™ Pet Eye Cleaning Wipes a try. They effectively remove tear stains with just one swipe.
Trim the hair around your dog's eyes to minimize the amount of excess fur that can clump together and cause excessive tearing. Opt for filtered water in your dog's water bowls instead of tap water. This will help reduce the mineral content in tap water, which can contribute to staining.
In certain cases, your veterinarian may recommend oral medication to prevent excessive tear production. It's always a good idea to consult with your vet to make the best decisions for your furry friend.
What Not to Do?
It is important to avoid using OTC Tylosin, Terramycin, makeup remover, Milk of magnesia, yogurt, honey, hydrogen peroxide, Gold bond, or corn starch for treating dog tear stains. Keep in mind that no matter how harmless they seem to you, veterinarians do not recommend them. These substances can cause discomfort to your dog if applied in or around the eye. Remember, the key to managing tear stains is through proper grooming and maintenance of your dog's face, particularly by keeping hair away from the eyes. Always consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing excessive tearing before considering any supplements for your dog.
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