Eye irritation in dogs can occur due to environmental conditions or internal eye problems that cause irritation. Since pet eyes are sensitive, even minor eye irritation should be addressed by the vet to rule out serious eye conditions that could cause permanent and irreversible eye damage. The most common irritants that cause eye problems include allergens present in the environment and eyelashes that turn inward to irritate the eye. Bacterial or viral infections can also lead to various symptoms of eye disorders and irritate the pet's eye. In order to determine if the dog is suffering from eye irritation or infection, pet owners should watch for any unusual symptoms.
Symptoms of Eye Irritation Include:
- Watery eyes
- Discharge
- Redness
- Pet blinks the eye
- Pet paws the face
- Pain or discomfort
- Pet rubs face against surfaces
Diagnosis and Treatment of Eye Irritation
In order to diagnose the cause of eye irritation, the vet will use an ophthalmoscope to examine the eye for any abnormalities. Eye malformations that turn lashes inward often require surgical correction to avoid future irritation. The vet will perform a schirmer tear test and a flurescein stain test to detect tear production, corneal ulcers and eye injury. Pets suffering from watery discharge associated with other respiratory symptoms are tested for contagious or viral infections.
If the irritation exists due to minor factors such as allergens, the vet will prescribe certain eye medication to soothe the eyes and bring relief from itching. Often, foreign objects become lodged in the eye and cause irritation. The vet will use specific tools to remove particles lodged in the eye and check for any tears or injury caused by the objects. There are several commercially available eye solutions that clean the eyes and alleviate symptoms. However, it's best to obtain prescribed medication to cure individual eye concerns.
Commercial Eye Medication for Dogs Includes:
- Neo Poly Dex Ophthalmic
- B.N.P Triple antibiotic ophthalmic ointment
- Optimmune
- Puralube Vet Ointment
- LiquiTears
Treatment Options
They type of medication used to treat eye irritation, varies according to the severity of eye condition involved. Surgical intervention is necessary if the eye condition is serious and could cause blindness. Pet owners should administer prescribed medication on time and follow vet instructions for dosage. Dog's susceptible to frequent eye infections should be given herbal medication as it's safer for use. If pets suffer from eye irritation due to fur that gets into the eyes, care takers should periodically trim long fur. Eye cleaners are also helpful to keep the eyes clear and free from eye discharge.
Home Care
If the eye irritation is accompanied by eye infection, it's important to wash hands thoroughly after cleaning the eyes and keep sick pets away from healthy dogs. Supplements that contain Vitamin A, C and D benefit dogs prone to frequent eye infections. In addition, it's best to treat minor eye problems promptly to avoid complication such as cataracts, glaucoma and corneal ulcers. Pet owners should wipe eye discharge with a moist towel and warm water. Used towels should be discarded to avoid re-infection.
It's important to determine the underlying cause of eye infection or irritation and adopt preventive techniques to avoid frequent use of antibiotics and eye ointments.