Dealing with Dog Runny Nose and Eye Discharge: Quick So

Understanding the Causes of Dogs' Runny Noses and Eye Discharge:

First and foremost, pet owners should carefully observe the color and consistency of their dog's nasal discharge to determine if there's a bacterial infection in the nose. Additionally, they should inspect the dog's eyes to see if there's just a small amount of crust at the corners or if there's a significant flow of discharge, which can help assess if the eyes are also infected by bacteria.

1. If the nasal discharge is clear and there's only a small amount of eye crust, the dog is likely in good health. A healthy dog's nose is typically moist and cool to the touch, which is normal. However, it could also be a sign of a mild cold. Eye crust is often a sign of heat in dogs, so pet owners should feed their pets lowcalorie dog food and canned food, and ensure they're wellhydrated.

2. If the nasal discharge and eye crust are purulent, it indicates a bacterial infection in the upper respiratory tract and inflammation.

Purulent nasal discharge and eye crust usually appear in the later stages of a cold, during canine pneumonia, or when the dog is infected with canine distemper virus. Pet owners should first assess other concurrent symptoms to determine if a viral test is necessary. If the dog has a high fever, loss of appetite, vomiting, or diarrhea, especially if it's a puppy, it's highly recommended to conduct a viral test to rule out any viral threats before proceeding with treatment. Additionally, it's important to rule out pneumonia. If the dog is experiencing difficulty breathing, panting, or coughing, a chest examination should be conducted to check for pneumonia. Lastly, for a cold, proper care and medication are key. With attentive care from the owner, the dog can recover quickly.