As a good dog owner, you must prioritize keeping your canine healthy and free from eye infections. Eye issues in canines may be viral or bacterial, and unlike humans, pets can not eliminate any foreign substances that come into contact with their eyes. Furthermore, some breeds are extra vulnerable to eye problems than others. Let’s discuss the most rampant eye issues in dogs.

What are the various canine eye infections?

There are numerous factors to watch for when it concerns dog eye infections. First, you should examine if the pet blinks a lot or squints. There could be an infection if the canine is in discomfort and declines to be touched on the head. You should also inspect if the dog is avoiding light, rubbing its eyes against the floor or furniture and if there is redness or bulging in the eyes. Below are different dog eye infections and their symptoms to assist you in checking your animal’s wellness.

1. Glaucoma

This is one of the more serious canine eye infections, and if not dealt with quickly, it can lead to blindness. This canine eye condition happens when liquid piles up inside the eye, increasing pressure and possibly causing more severe damage. As undesirable as glaucoma is for humans, it is more painful for dogs.

Glaucoma is typically treated with surgery to lessen liquid accumulation in the eye and save the canine’s vision and discomfort and pressure medications. Early signs of glaucoma can be confused with conjunctivitis. However, other signs consist of a clouded cornea, visible pain in the canine, and bloodshot eyes.

2. Conjunctivitis

Pink eye is another name for this disease. It is among the most prevalent dog eye problems, and allergies or parasites can likewise cause it. This ailment occurs when the membrane inside the eyelids and in front of the eye gets irritated. Inflamed red eyes, intense crying, and a thick yellowish or greenish mucus discharge are all symptoms of conjunctivitis.

Cleaning the canine’s eyelids and wiping away the discharge with a cotton ball damp with lukewarm water is a home therapy for conjunctivitis. Over-the-counter eye scrubs can be utilized twice daily or as typically as required. However, to guarantee the most effective treatment, you need to seek the recommendations of an expert.

3. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca

Dry eye also referred to as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, is another usual pet eye infection. This happens when natural tears aren’t generated to keep the eyes wet, causing tear duct injury. If left without treatment, this canine eye infection can advance to even more major issues such as corneal ulcers and perhaps loss of sight. This problem is treated with surgery, and eye drops to moisten the eye. You can search online for “dog check up near me” for any emergencies to find a specialist in your area.

4. Entropion

Another type of canine eye infection occurs when the eyelids fold inward, making the eyelashes contact the eyes, causing discomfort and suffering. Since this illness is inherited, it’s best to see if the dog is predisposed to it. Entropion can be repaired with a simple operation; however, it’s critical to get it done quickly, or it can worsen your animal’s health. You must click here to learn more about dog ocular procedures.

5. Cataracts

This is due to the aging procedure, just like in humans. Cataracts are mainly inherited, but canine diabetes, infections, and injuries contribute. The opaque or clouded membrane covering the pet’s eye should be checked for, as should the canine’s problem seeing its way about. Depending on the dog’s cause, intensity, and situation, this can be treated with eye drops or surgery. 

A veterinarian can also look for other problems with your pet’s health. For example, if your pets have a teeth problem necessitating a dental procedure, you should bring them to a veterinary surgery clinic for treatment.