Dog Epiphora Symptoms and Treatments

Dog epiphora is a condition that involves an abnormal overflow of tears down the face. It is often the result of conjunctivitis or corneal ulceration, although some dogs’ eyes permanently water. When a dog under-eye area is constantly wet, it creates a good environment and breeding ground for bacteria and yeast and causes much discomfort and give off a foul odor.

When no other dog eye diseases are present, the usual cause would be the deficient drainage through the tear duct either from obstruction through the nasolacrimal or over production of tears that flood the normal drainage system. The overproduction of tears is most often a reflex, activated to expel irritating material from the surface of the eye or when significant irritation develops inside the eye.

Signs and symptoms of epiphora in dog would include dark tear staining on the dog’s face, running from the inner corners of the eyes down the muzzle, accumulation of dried discharge on the edges of the eyelids, ulceration and irritation of the skin below the eye, near the nose, rubbing of the eyes or face and the conjunctiva turning redness in color.

Depending on the seriousness of the condition, some of the useful treatment homemade remedy would be to use Allium cepa (acute dosage), and a diluted tincture or infusion of eyebright may be use to bathe and wash the eyes twice daily.

Cleanliness is key here. Make sure your own hands are scrub clean when you touch your dog’s face. Do not allow crusty matter to build up in the corners as they can stick to the skin, causing sores and scabbing.

Try to avoid bleaching compounds that might irritate your dog’s sensitive eyes and skin. Also avoid dog foods and treats that contain artificial coloring. A switch to a premium food with no wheat or corn, substances that often cause allergies in dogs might just help to cure canine epiphora problems. Lastly, your dog may benefit from drinking bottled water and eating from stainless steel bowls instead of plastic one.

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