Goopy Eye

Question
My 9 year old lab developed an eye problem  The vet dx'd dry eye and prescribed Optimmune, which we have been using for about 3 weeks.  The eye has been off and on really goopy with greenish muscous in the eye.  I have been cleaning it twice daily by gently removing the goop with a q-tip and then applying the Optimmune.  I'm curious with the discharge if it is possible it is more of an eye infection than the dry eye?

Answer
A ropy, solid, light colored or greenish goop is one of the hallmarks of dry eye. Optimmune won't cure it overnight and may not cure it at all. It is made to help improve the function of the tear ducts, but they could be too far gone to every start working again.

Three weeks isn't that long in this process either. It can take up to 6 months before you see a real change. The main thing is, don't give up on it- but keep going.

You are doing the correct thing by cleaning them out then using the drops. The fact that at times it is not so goopy is a good sign the drugs are probably starting to work.

Just keep at it. Some times these old timers have a hard time getting old. Remember that a 9 yr old lab is about the same as a 70 yr old man.

It's hard to get old! I hope your efforts are paid off soon. Your dog certainly is grateful as dry eye can become very painful if not treated.