Expert: Charlotte Sherrell, DVM - 6/25/2009

Question
My collie has this mucousy like black colored discharge around his eyes, ears and mouth.  The only place it really seems to bother him is around his eyes.  It clumps up and he rubs it off; when he rubs it, it bleeds like he's pulled off a scab.  My vet gave me drops for his eyes but they don't seem to be helping.  I wouldn't think the drops would be doing his ears and mouth any good.  What could this be? What can I do for him?
Any help would be appreciated; he's 14 years old and has problems with arthritis and getting around; I'd like to minimize his problems if possible.

Thank you,
Stephanie Hall
Princeton, WV


Answer
Stephanie -

Unfortunately, I cannot treat your dog because he is not one of my patients.  The discharge you describe may be from infection - request that your vet perform bloodwork to determine what is going on with your dog.

You can give your dog anti-inflammatory medication to help control the pain of arthritis. Your vet can provide you with meds to help keep your dog comfortable as he ages.

Best Regards,

Charlotte Sherrell, DVM