Can Tear Stains Cause Blindness?
A dog's tear stains can be unsightly, but most pet parents don't realize that they could also lead to a serious health problem. If left untreated, tear stains can actually cause blindness in dogs.
Tear stains are caused by a buildup of pigment in the tears. When this pigment is not removed, it can harden and form deposits on the eyes. These deposits can block the dog's vision and eventually lead to blindness.
How do Dogs Get Tear Stains?
There are several factors that can contribute to tear stains in dogs. One of the most common is allergies. Dogs with allergies often have chronic inflammation in the eyes, which can lead to staining. Dogs with allergies are also more likely to get tear stains, as are dogs who eat a lot of processed food. Genetics also plays a key role as some dogs are just more prone to them than others. Breeds with flat faces, like pugs and bulldogs, tend to have more tear stains because their tears don't drain properly.
Other causes of tear stains include:
• Excessive tearing
• Eyelid abnormalities
• Respiratory infections
• Nasal infections
• Blocked tear ducts
Dog Breeds Prone to Tear Stains
Some dog breeds are more prone to tear stains than others. These include:
• Poodles
• Bichon Frises
• Shih Tzus
• Lhasa Apsos
• Maltese
If you have one of these breeds, it is important to be especially vigilant about keeping the eyes clean and free of debris.
How to Prevent Tear Stains
The best way to prevent tear stains is to keep your dog's eyes clean and free of debris. This can be done by wiping the area around the eyes daily. You should also avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners around the eyes, as these can irritate the sensitive tissue and lead to staining. Squishface Wrinkle Wipes have phytosphingosine in them which is a skin lipid with anti-inflammatory and microbe repelling properties. It helps rebuild the natural ceramides found in the skin barrier that are critical in helping keep the skin healthy. Wrinkle Wipes are the first step to cleaning and protecting your dog’s skin. Our alcohol-free formula is gentle enough for even the most sensitive and allergy-prone dogs. If your dog has allergies, it is important to treat the underlying condition to reduce the risk of tear stains. This may involve allergy shots or medication.
How to Treat Tear Stains
If your dog already has tear stains, there are several ways to treat them. One option is to use Squishface Wrinkle Paste which is a wrinkle cleaner and tear stain cream for dogs created without water or alcohol and with a limited, only absolutely essential ingredient list. Wrinkle Paste forms a water-repellent barrier on the skin surface which keeps moisture, yeast, fungus and other bacteria at bay while removing even the most stubborn tear stains.
For best results we recommend cleaning the area of debris and applying fresh Wrinkle Paste once daily for 7 to 10 days.
Checkout this before and after pictures of a pup using Wrinkle Paste to remove its tear stains!
The Bottom Line
Tear stains may be unsightly, but they can also lead to serious health problems if left untreated. If you're concerned about your dog's tear stains, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you determine the best course of action to take to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
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