My dog has a sore mouth, clicking jaw, and droopy eyes. What to do?

Since this is still going on and not getting better, you need to take her to the vet as soon as possible. There are a number of injuries she could have, including fractures to her head or neck that are likely responsible for the pain and the droopy face and swelling. She could have a broken or displaced jaw that causes pain, making her reluctant to eat. This doesn't seem to be improving so she needs medical attention right away. Your vet will do an exam, x-rays, possibly additional labwork, and based on these results, will be better able to tell you what is going on and how best to treat it.

This sounds like a serious problem, especially given the chronicity. A neurologic problem with the nerves to the face or a neuromuscular problem (facial muscles) may be options. Unfortunately there are many things that could be causing these symptoms. A good place to start is baseline bloodwork to check organ function along with a full neurologic exam by a vet. If your family vet is stumped then referral to a veterinary specialist (internist or neurologist) is indicated. More testing is needed in a case like this in order to know what is the best treatment. Your family vet should be able to provide referral or you can search for a specialist online. I hope this helps and thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach!

I’m sorry Oscar is dealing with this. He is quite a handsome guy! Pain opening the mouth can be caused by a few thing including infections or an autoimmune disease called masticatory muscle myositis (MMM). I would have Oscar evaluated by his veterinarian. They may be able to get an idea based on their exam, and they can also do special blood testing for MMM. They can start Oscar on medication as indicated to help him be much more comfortable. In the meantime continue feeding him very soft foods. Hope he is feeling much better soon!

Poor pup! I'm sorry to hear that she's having this problem. There are a number of different things that could cause problems with closing the mouth and excessive drooling like this, so it's hard to say what might be wrong without being able to examine her. Some common possibilities would include an injury to the mouth or jaw, a tumor or infection in the mouth, or a neurologic problem such as a stroke. I would recommend taking your dog to the vet for an exam today, if possible, since some of these problems can be quite serious. Your vet can do a complete neurologic exam and may also sedate her so that a thorough oral exam can be performed as well. Once a diagnosis is made, he/she can talk to you about what treatment will be needed.

With signs of muscle weakness, I would definitely have her tested for a condition called Myasthenia Gravis. This is an immune mediated disorder that can cause a multitude of symptoms including facial weakness, regurgitation, neck weakness and exercise intolerance. It can be tested through your vet and also treated for. The only other possible cause that comes to mind for a pet with muscle weakness and a tight jaw, would be tetanus, but you would expect a multitude of other symptoms including vomiting, fever, severe lethargy and inappetence. I hope that they can find out the cause soon! If she still comes up negative for anything after the additional test, then I would consider an MRI or CT scan on Xena moving forward. Best wishes and take care.

There is no alternative at this stage other than a full dental assessment to remove the tartar and infection and relieve pain by extracting the loose and damaged teeth which would then allow the gums to heal. Contact your local humane society for advice on subsidised care if you cannot provide for his care. Toothpaste, rinses and dental chews will not be sufficient at this stage and it is not appropriate to ignore the current pain and infection you describe

If he is crying, he is pain. I absolutely DO NOT recommend you give him any medication at home. Dogs can be very sensitive to human over the counter medications and these medications can interfere with what the vet wants to give him tomorrow. He will be fine for one day. Just don't try to touch the face/jaw and give him some soft foods to eat (if he will eat). I am a bit worried that he may have a fractured (broken) jaw or an infected tooth.