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My senior dog is unsteady, has eye discharge. Could it be vestibular?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | neutered | 14 lbs

17 year old dog is walking a bit Off balance and loss of energy. Typically energetic dog even at his age. Also eye producing fluid and some discharge as well. Vet said it was eye infection and gave him tobramycin ophthalmic solution Eyedrops Tuesday...Doesn’t seem to have helped as symptoms have gotten worse. Lose of balance.. Unsteady walk . Had an episode of vestibular syndrome 2 years ago and unsure if he’s having another episode now . Still eating and drinking water.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 24th, 2019

I am so sorry to hear that your older pet Glacier has what does sound like another vestibular disease episode, especially if he is walking in circles. However, if he is just unsteady in his gait with no circling, then I would have to assume this is a severe arthritis condition and not vestibular disease. Osteoarthritis to this degree is best treated with anti-inflammatories prescribed by your vet, as well as pain management.
The eye itself looks a bit more than just an infection. Possible causes for this include glaucoma and uveitis just to name a few. There is severe redness, white discharge, and intraocular (inside the eye) changes occuring there, which warrants further testing. The vet needs to check Glaciers eye pressures, possible blood pressure as well, and consider a referral to an ophthalmologist if those tests come up negative.

This sounds quite serious however, so its best to get Glacier back in to the vet as soon as possible. I hope that he stabilizes soon! Best of luck and take care.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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