Dog eye allergy or something else?

Hi Ann,
Yes, the swelling around Baby Girl's eye appears to be an allergic reaction. Usually it occurs in BOTH eyes if due to something she ate.

If it was only one eye, I would suspect something else that she brushed against, such as poison ivy or poison oak.. And that made her itch and rub the eye causing more irritation and swelling.

Actually, food allergies usually DO NOT respond to anti-histamine or cortisone, and since she did get better since the Benadryl, I would suspect something other than food. But I do think it is a good idea to find her something better than what Publix carries. See our page on 10 Best Dog Food Options, and consider changing her to a RAW Diet!

You wrote, "There's a bump beneath her scab, is that normal?" Yes, it is still edema secondary to the allergic swelling. You might consider giving her the homeopathic remedy, Apis mellifica 6c or 12c three times daily for 3 days, OR try Rhus toxicodendron 6c or 12c three times daily for 3 days, to clear her up completely.

If neither of those remedies are helping, and the swelling persists, consider seeking the help of a holistic veterinarian. Another resource for vets knowledgeable in homeopathy is AVH.org.

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the 'click here to add your own comments' link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

DISCLAIMER: This educational advice is based on the depth of your question and the picture you submitted. The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Related Pages:
- Dog Eye Problems,
- Ask a Vet Online Library - Dog Eye Problems Section