Sty on dogs eyelid

Question
Hi. I have a 12 year old mini Dachshund named Jake. He developed what looks like a sty on his lower eye lid. It has gotten only slightly bigger in the fews days since it appeared. My question is: will this come to a head and then go away on it's own or does it require attention from a vet? He doesn't seem bothered by it except his eyes water some. Does it indicate another problem or is it an isolated problem?
Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hello Goldie -

Without actually seeing your pet and the stye, I cannot give you a definite answer.

Styes generally in humans, will rupture and can be treated herbally. Styes in dog's can be a bit more complicated. He may have a condition called Entropion which is a "rolling in" of the eyelids so that the eyelashes contact and irritate the cornea. He could also have a condition called "Cherry Eye" which is a prolapse of the tear gland associated with the third eyelid. Again, I cannot be real specific in giving you advice with physically seeing your pet. Sorry.

It would be best to take him to your veterinarian for a full diagnosis. These conditions can be treated with antibiotics and should clear up. In worse case scenarios sometimes surgery may be an option if the growth does not go away.

In the meantime, you could apply the herb Eyebright to the eye area. Simply boil water and add about a tablespoon of the herb, let it steep for about 15 minutes. The water will turn dark yellow to light brown. Strain the herb and apply at room temperature to the whole eye area. Don't be afraid to get it into your pets eye, it will not harm him. Eyebright will help reduce inflammation and begin the healing process. However, if your pet has one of the condtions I mentioned above, your veterinarian will have to administer and antibiotic. Feel free to contact me again, if this happens, I will instruct on natural medicine that will aid and speed up the healing process and will not harm your pet.

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 and send you my catalog of home made herbal remedies.

Thank you and best wishes to you and your pet. Please keep me posted on your pets condition.

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