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Ask the Veterinarian/dwarf hamster has a redish eye

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Expert: - 5/10/2009


Question
I have a red-eyed dwarf hamster and just now when I looked at it, the fur around its eye is red. It's not sick because its behaving normally and its not acting weird. I just don't know what's wrong with the bloody eye. Is the red stuff on its fur blood?

Answer
Without seeing the hamster I cannot say for sure. The tears, like the saliva, have enzymes in them that turn the fur a rusty brown color. If it is rusty brown, then the problem is increased tear production or blocked tear ducts. If it is bloodier, I do not know without an exam. Small (less domesticated) animals often make themselves act as if they are well until close to death, so predators will not think they are weak and eat them.

Wipe the eye when you notice the redness, and record how many times the moisture builds back up.

The very best you can do is to call Dr. Yearout in WA. He does telephone consults and specializes in holistic and nutritional approaches to these small animals like hamsters. One call will help your stay healthy for as long as possible. 425-334-8171

Dr. Chambreau
PS - If you have dogs or cats, do visit my web site, www.ChristinaChambreau.com

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Dr. Christina Chambreau

Expertise

I can give you the holistic approach to any problem in any species, though mostly I work with dogs and cats. Depending on the condition and the type of animal, I will be able to give very specific treatment suggestions such as what flower essences, homeopathic remedies, nutritional supplements, diet changes, lifestyle changes or herbs that may be helpful - not drugs. I can also suggest where you can go for further education or to find a specialist in a specific holistic field. I can help you understand why your animal is ill and what improvements can be expected. I do not check messages more than every one to two days, so PLEASE DO NOT ask about EMERGENCIES - call your local veterinarian. I cannot diagnose your animal. I cannot prescribe specific treatments. I am no longer very current with conventional treatments, so cannot answer questions on those. I am not an expert on birds or small critters. I will give you helpful connections about hose species.

Experience

I graduated from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1980 and began using homeopathy in my practice after a client introduced me to it. By 1988 I was using exclusively holistic treatments. I began lecturing in 1987 and have spoken at veterinary conferences, health food stores, people's homes, churches, veterinary college conferences - anywhere people want to learn more about keeping their animals healthy.

Organizations
Academy of Veterinary Homeopathy (I helped found this one) American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association National Center for Homeopathy American Veterinary Medical Association

Publications
I have written in many magazines, journals and newspapers. A few include Bark Magazine; Journal of the AHVMA; Baltimore Dog Magazine; Whole Dog Journal; Tiger Tribe; Wolf Clan. I have also been frequently interveiwed on radio and TV.

Education/Credentials
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Certified Veterinary Homeopath (CVH)

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