Hi, I'm new to this delightful site and not very computer savy, so I hope this goes through.

I've been using Eye Envy for several months on my white shihtzu's tear stains.  It has help

ed somewhat, but I'm weary of the battle.  I've researched Angel's Eyes but am concerned 

the antibiotics in it.  Does anyone have any suggestions?  Currently, I give her distilled

water, one half tums twice a day, a doggie vitamin, and omega 3 fatty acids.  These are

things I've researched on my own as far as beneficial things to try.  They all have helped

to some degree.  Any further help would be great.

thanks in advance

Meizhen

Shih Tzus are short nosed dogs and so are prone to tear stains.

I would be careful about using commercial cleaning products around her eyes. They could potentially have harsh chemicals in them.

I have two Shih Tzus. Their tear stains are not too bad. My NUbe's eyes get gooey, but she has a black face so the stains do not show.Chiqui has not too much. What I would do is clean twice daily with a cotton cosmetic pad and clean warm water. If it gets really bad you can use s little tear free bably shampoo (rinse after!!!)

My feeling is that tear stains are not the end of the earth. YOu need to be REALLy careful about eye irritations with Shih Tzus, as eye problems are their nemesis. Shih Tzus can lose eyes or lose vision easily if you are not careful.

                                            Dory

P.S. What are the Tums for?

 Hi Dory,

I read that one half of a 500mg tab of tums twice a day is supposed to change the ph balance of the tears.  Read it on some things they suggested for maltese's tear stain care.  It was either that or using a teaspoon of white vinnegar in their distilled water which does the same thing I guess.

thanks for your info.

 I have another concern about Tums. I am a regular listener to a radio program called The People's Pharmacy on NPR. They had a special program on long-term use of antacids. The doctor they interviewed had a concern that regular use of antacids altered the acid balance of the stomach to the point where it affects absorption of nutrients. I think daily washings with water, or even with mild soap and water is the best. I really like Allergroom dog shampoo as it is not stinky, and dogs really really hate perfumy smells. Dogs'  eye secretions naturally have an amber color to them. 

                                                                        Dory