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Conjunctivitis in dogs

Hi there! We are sorry you are here but happy to help. Itchy, watery, red eyes can be concerning for any pet owner. And then they start to paw at their face?!?! Poor kid. Here’s what you can do.

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Symptom checker

Here are some signs that you should be paying close attention or seeking advice:

Are they squinting or do they seem painful?

This could be a sign of something more serious like an ulcer, increased pressure or inflammation in the eye.

Does the surface of the clear part of the eye look different?

The cornea is the clear protective layer of the eye and is at risk for injury, ulceration, and inflammation. When it is damaged, pets are painful and risk losing vision.

Are they pawing at their face?

Sometimes our pets are really overt about how they are feeling. If they are pawing, they are telling you it hurts!

Is it the whole eye or just the third eyelid?

Some breeds such as bulldogs and cocker spaniels are at risk of developing a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid (aka cherry eye). This condition is typically not painful but can lead to problems with closing the eye lids, tear production, and the gland can dry out or get infected. This may not require a visit to the vet today but should be diagnosed and addressed efficiently to lead to the best outcome.

Are they squinting or do they seem painful?

This could be a sign of something more serious like an ulcer, increased pressure or inflammation in the eye.

Does the surface of the clear part of the eye look different?

The cornea is the clear protective layer of the eye and is at risk for injury, ulceration, and inflammation. When it is damaged, pets are painful and risk losing vision.

Are they pawing at their face?

Sometimes our pets are really overt about how they are feeling. If they are pawing, they are telling you it hurts!

Is it the whole eye or just the third eyelid?

Some breeds such as bulldogs and cocker spaniels are at risk of developing a prolapsed gland of the third eyelid (aka cherry eye). This condition is typically not painful but can lead to problems with closing the eye lids, tear production, and the gland can dry out or get infected. This may not require a visit to the vet today but should be diagnosed and addressed efficiently to lead to the best outcome.

Does your pet need Urgent Care?

If it’s just one minor episode, probably not today. But if it is multiple times or there are any of the serious symptoms mentioned above, yes! Remember to trust your gut too. If you think it’s serious it probably is. Scout is here to help!
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Here’s what you can do at home...

1

Give the eyes a flush.

Some causes of eye irritation can be effectively treated with a good sterile saline flush. You can purchase this at the drug store. You will need to hold the eye lids open when flushing and gently squeeze the solution from a 1–2 inch distance from the eye. Some dogs will not tolerate this at home! It’s also important that you DO NOT use contact solution. Many of these have additives that can be irritating.
2

Apply a moist, warm compress.

If there is any discharge from the eye or blockage of the tear ducts, this can help to loosen things up. Test the compress on your skin first to ensure it is not too warm. Apply for no more than 10 minutes at a time.
3

Apply artificial tears.

If the cause is dryness, applying an over-the-counter artificial tear solution 2-3 times a day can provide some relief.
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