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Something to eliminate tear and whisker stains?

9 mo old Bichon. Is there something I can give him (or use on him) that will remove/eliminate the tear stains and mouth whisker stains?

Thank You

2 Responses to “Something to eliminate tear and whisker stains?”

  1. Melinda R. Burgwardt, DVM NY says:

    Tetracycline is helpful for reducing or eliminating such stains, but it cannot be used until all adult teeth are in, as it interferes with the formation of tooth enamel. Ask your veterinarian if they could check on this if they are not familiar with it, for dosing is generally lower than when an antibiotic is needed. Tetracycline breaks hydrostatic bonds, which enhances fluid flow and often flushes tear ducts, and I’ve been told it also chelates iron porphyrins, which helps remove the stains, although some of it will have to simply grow out. You’ll have to wait until your dog is a bit older, but it helps most of them!

    Melinda R. Burgwardt, DVM
    Melinda R. Burgwardt, DVM
    Lancaster, NY

  2. Mack L. Barney, DVM says:

    Hi,
    Tylosin powder is very effective and safe to use. A very small amount in food twice a day will work. For a small dog, a teaspoon of the powder would be enough for about two weeks. You could mix that in a meal in small quantities. It can be purchased as tylosin powder (Tylan) for chickens and turkeys, online or at a feed store. You can also purchase it premixed as “Angel Eyes” online, although you will pay quite a bit more for someone else mixing it for you.

    I hope this helps.

    Mack L. Barney, DVM
    Barney & Russum Animal Clinic
    Fairfield, CA

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