Accepted Answer

Hello and thanks for researching this very important question!

Keeping the fur carefully trimmed around his eyes is quite important to preventing future infections, both in the eyes and on the skin below them.

I would consider the following:

1) It may be that the infection has blocked or damaged the tear ducts that run from the eyelids and down into the nasal sinuses. A warm water compress applied to the face, with focus on the area between the eye and the bridge of the nose, may help relieve a salt or mucous blockage in the ducts.

2) His tear glands may have been damaged by the infection, or is under attack by his immune system. The thin "washing" portion of his tears is no longer being produced and the thick portion is collecting around the eyelids. When dogs have reduced production of proper tears, the eyes can be chronically irritated and red. Replacement tears are applied to the eyes several times daily to help thin secretions so that they can pass out of the ducts leading to the nasal sinuses. Look at the pharmacy for a regular artificial tears preparation and use it as often as you think of it daily. If this is the immune (progressive) form of dysfunction, he may need stronger medicines used in the eyes as time passes to prevent damage to the eyes themselves.
Autoimmune Dry Eye Information Here.

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Edited by Gen B. on 7/28/2009 at 4:23 PM

Expert:	Gen B.
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Answered:	7/28/2009

Retired Veterinary Technician

Lhasa,Shih Tzu Breeder/ B.A.Neurophysiology & Animal Behavior/I use plain English!