Think Your Dog Has Pink Eye? Signs They Do And Treatment Options Available
If you think your dog has pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis, you need to have it treated. If not, the problem will only get worse and may even damage their eye. Below are some symptoms your dog will have if it has pink eye, as well as treatment options available to help it feel better.
Pink Eye Symptoms
One of the main symptoms of pink eye is discharge coming from the eye, which is generally a cloudy green or yellow color. Your dog's eye will be very red, and they may blink a lot because of the burn. There may be swelling around their eye. In most cases, a dog with pink eye will have it in both eyes. If your dog currently only has it in one eye, keep a close watch on the other eye to be sure it does not also get the infection. You may notice the discharge crusts over and may even make your dog's eye close shut. If this happens, wipe their eye with a damp, warm cloth to loosen the hard crust.
There are many things that can cause pink eye. The most common thing is a virus. It can also happen if your dog has allergies in the spring, summer, and/or the fall. There are some breeds that are more susceptible to pink eye than other breeds. Your dog could also have an eyelid tumor that can cause pink eye. Your dog may have eye irritation from getting something in their eye or from being around smoke or other pollutants.
Pink Eye Treatment
If your dog is showing any signs of pink eye, take them to a veterinarian for treatment. The vet will determine if your dog does have pink eye. They can then help determine what is causing the pink eye, such as allergies or if there is eye injury or disease. To do this, the veterinarian will give your dog an ophthalmic exam. They will look at the entire eye structure, such as the eyelashes, eyelids, tear ducts, etc.
If your dog is found to have pink eye, the most common treatment is topical eye medication. The doctor may also give your dog an oral medication. Your dog may have a secondary infection along with pink eye. If so, they will be prescribed an antibiotic.
If the pink eye is caused by eye injury or eye disease, the doctor may have to do surgery to treat the pink eye problem.
Contact your veterinarian for more information about dog pink eye products.
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