My dog's eye isn't improving with drops, and the vet is unsure.

Horner's syndrome is a collection of symptoms that result from problems with nerves responsible for the movement of the eyelids and the pupil. Horner's syndrome in a puppy would be extremely rare. It is difficult to tell from the picture if one or both eyes are affected, and I cannot see much of the eyes or pupils. If you came to this diagnosis because he is holding one eye closed, there are some things that are more likely, such as a corneal ulcer or conjunctivitis. I always recommend taking eye problems seriously, as they can become rapidly worse. So I do think a trip to your veterinarian is warranted. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! This could be due to something like conjunctivitis for example. However, there are some other diseases that really need a very thorough evaluation of the eye to diagnose. I think that if he has not improved on the current therapy, it may be a good idea to check in with your veterinarian. If they are concerned based on their knowledge of his case, they could consider having you consult with a veterinary ophthalmologist. They would be able to perform a thorough evaluation and recommend accordingly. Good luck and have a great day!

This is likely to be due to a corneal ulceration, possibly due the enrolling of the lower eyelid and its rubbing against the eye surface. The blue discoloration is due to the presence of inflammation in the anterior chamber of the eye. The other signs seems to be related to the ulcer. I would recommend another check up to determine the underlying cause of it more specifically and give appropriate treatment. Serum and antibiotic eye drops will be needed.

If you are talking about the pink triangle tissue in the middle corners, this is her 3rd eyelid. They aren't suppose to be showing but will sometimes come up when the eyes are irritated or their is an allergic reaction. I would start giving her benadryl twice a day. I would also have her eyes recheck if it isn't starting to improve. I can't tell for sure in the 2nd picture but it does look like the pupils may be different sizes. If this is true, I would have your vet recheck them to see if anything has changed. I hope this helps! https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl/#

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Lexi! Horners can be causes by any disease process anywhere from the brain, neck, arm pit and chest. Idiopathic horners can take 4-6 months to resolve. Phenylephrine can be used in the eyes to help with the symptoms of horners. The drops can be irritating and damaging to the corneal epithelial cells so follow your Vet's instructions. I have never seen a dog with both eyes affected and it is rare to see without other neurologic deficits. Be sure Lexi's ears were checked and consider imaging of her bulla for middle ear disease. I hope this helps and I wish Lexi the best!

I’m sorry but I can’t tell much from the photos. Are you worried about the third eyelids covering the eyes? Or is the problem with the eyeballs themselves? Can you tell me what diagnosis your vet gave you? Did he give you any medications to use? How long has this problem been like this? Are there any other symptoms? Please post again with more information.

Hi, and thanks for your question. That is likely to be due to a mild to moderate conjunctivitis, probably secondary to a trauma or infection. A check up would be needed as appropriate treatment would include antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Corneal injuries must be ruled out as well. Hope this answer was helpful, but please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further. Please find the time to give us a feedback about the consultation as that will be used to improve our service.