Expert: Kaza - 3/2/2009

Question
We have a great little guy that is now three years old. On a few occasions,after running hard, our Bichon will sit down and get a somewhat confused look and start whimpering.  This has only happened a few times but is is disconcerting when it happens.
We have also noticed that he has lost most of the black color on his nose and his eyes lids are more pale than pink.
He gets regular care at the Vets and otherwise seems to be in excellent health.

Any ideas would be appreciated.  

Thanks!

Answer
MAny bichons will do this during the winter months, but after April if still no return to black, give some kelp in the diet, watch, if no change stop the kelp and this is simply genetic. I suspect this is genetic , even from the very best lines this will happen.

The whimpering, I would ask a vet to check his patella , making sure there is no luxation, start to give the following supplements in the diet for all bichons.

Cranberry tablets 1 daily if on a dry diet
Glucosamine and chondratin 200mg daily
Lutein 6mg per week to avoid (hopefully ) Cataracts
Fibre diet pill 1 Per week  for anal gland health.


good luck

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