Dog Eye Infection Symptoms
Eye infections are not uncommon in dogs. This disorder is usually very noticeable to pet owners, and because of this visibility, is usually discovered in its early stages before there is any imminent threat to the dog's general health. A dog's eyes are one of its most essential sensing characteristics. It is important to get veterinary attention quickly when a dog has an eye infection to avoid complications which may come about if not treated properly.
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Causes
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Causes of eye infections include viruses, bacterial infection, Lyme disease, allergies, foreign materials or irritants in the eyes, disease or abrasion. Dogs prone to tear staining are also more susceptible to eye infections. Tear staining is caused by eye discharge. Fur located around the dog's eyes can capture the moisture from the excessive tearing, triggering an infection.
Symptoms
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Common symptoms indicating a dog has an eye infection can involve pawing or scratching the eye, squinting, sensitivity to light, red, swollen or bloodshot eyes, failing vision, or a blue-grey cloudiness to the eyes. Profuse eye discharge is the most visible common symptom of eye infection. A dog displaying an excessive amount of a mucous-like secretion should be taken to the veterinarian for treatment.
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Diagnosis
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It is very important that a veterinarian determine exactly what is causing the eye infection to ensure a correct diagnosis is made and medications are prescribed. A tear duct test may be performed to make certain they are functioning properly. A fluorescein staining test may be done to determine if there are any tears or lesions in the eye's cornea. An ophthalmoscopic exam can check the general areas of the eyes, eyelids and surrounding tissue.
Treatment
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There are no home remedies for eye infection. A dog displaying symptoms of eye infection must be treated by a veterinarian since there are certain types of disorders that do require immediate attention. Some infections like conjunctivitis are very contagious to other pets in the household and need to be quickly treated. After a thorough examination, an antibiotic eye ointment or drops may be prescribed for about a 10 day period. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed along with eye scrubs, a common treatment for dogs experiencing eye infection. Medications need to be administered on a consistent basis to ensure the infection is thoroughly treated. The pet's owner should also try to keep the animal as comfortable as possible during this recovery period.
Prevention
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There are no guarantees for ensuring a dog will not contract an eye infection. However, there are steps which can be taken to help prevent this disorder. Check its eyes on a regular basis, keeping them clean by wiping away any accumulated discharge. The dog should be regularly brushed, groomed and bathed, and its sleeping area should be kept clean. Try to keep the pet away from other dogs which may have an eye infection, and do not let a dog ride in the car with its head out the window.
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