infected eye

Question
My 50-lb cockapoo mix has one eye that is crusty and weepy.  Should I use witch hazel on a cotton ball to bathe around the eye?  

Answer
Hello Susan -

You can use Witch Hazel to clean the eye area, as long as it home made. The store brands tend to have other chemicals in the blend that can cause irritation if applied directly into the eye.

Read the bottle before administering, if tell you to keep out of eyes, then do not use it.

If you have the herb Witch Hazel and make it as an infusion, you can apply it directly into the eye which will also soothe internal irriation as well and assist with the "crust". You may also want to add the herb Eyebright, this will work very well for your pets concerns.

I make 2 (two) good herbal remedies for pet eye conditions. First, "Pet Eye Wash" which is basically for your pets concern, basic crusty and weepy eyes that can be brought about by allergies. Second, "Pet Pink Eye Wash" which is for infection or severe inflammation in the eye caused bacteria in the eye itself or from a bad cold or Upper Respiratory Infection.

** Be sure to use a new cotton ball eveytime you wipe your pets eye. Make one swipe with the cotton ball and then throw it away. Bacteria collects very quickly and if your use the cotton ball for more then one swipe you will be leaving the bacteria on the eye area which will not assist in healing**

I hope this information has helped you and your pet.

If you would like information on natural and herbal remedies for human and animal concerns please contact me at wintersaurora@yahoo.com and I will be happy to assist you. I also offer a catalogue of specially formulated herbal remedies (like the eye washes mentioned above) which I can send to you as well. My products are also available online at www.localharvest.org.

Thank you and best wishes to you and your pet.

Sincerely,
Sharon Hubbs, AHG
Certified Natural Health Consultant & Herbalist