How do I take care of my sick gerbil?

Question
I'm pretty sure my gerbil is sick, because one of her eyes is goopy and her nose looks runny. She is only about 2 and half years old, and my book says that they usually live to be 3-5 yrs old. Is it my fault that she got sick? I'm almost positive I'm doing everything right (cleaning the cage at least twice a month, feeding her seeds, fruits, and vegetables, changing the water every day, etc.) I'd really appreciate it if you could tell me what she's sick with, and how I can take care of her. My family and I already called PetSmart, but they said that the vet probably wouldn't be able to help her much. Thanks a lot!

Answer
Hello Nikki,
from my personal experience gerbils normally live 2-4 years actually. Five is really really lucky. The vet can prescribe some medication for the respiratory infection and eye infection. Generally if a gerbil has an eye infection and runny nose it's more than likely a respiratory infection and they can be treated with antibiotics from a vet. You will need to change the bedding more since she's sick, but it's not your fault she is sick though.