Third Eyelid Swelling in Dog

This is not painful, and was not caused by trauma. It is a common condition in the Cocker Spaniel, usually due to hereditary, and is caused by the cartilage in the third eyelid being too weak. It will bend over backwards, allowing the gland to pop up and become visible.

In some cases, a surgery can be done to ‘tack’ down the gland so it will stay underneath the third eyelid. This is better than the older surgery of removing the gland. Since part of the function of the gland is to provide tears to the cornea, if the gland is surgically removed, there is a chance that eye may develop ‘dry eye’ because of insufficient tears.

The best treatment would be nutritional support for the cartilage, lubrication for the cornea, and treating her with homeopathic remedies.

Seeking the help of a homeopathic veterinarian, and there are quite a few in the Oakland/east Bay and San Francisco area, would be best. Improving her diet (see our page on the 10 Best Dog food options), consider a transition to a raw diet for her, NO DRY food!

And consider the addition of Canine Whole Body Support, from Standard Process, and Mega C powder from Orthomolecular Specialities. If that eye looks red or inflamed, you can add 2-3 drops of olive oil into her eye several times a day for lubrication.

In addition to the above, a holistic veterinarian will take her case, and evaluate her as a whole individual. Her likes and dislikes, any cravings, phobias, past illnesses, past vaccinations (see our page on alternative medicine for dogs ) will help to determine the correct homeopathic remedy for her.

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.