How to Detect Dog Conjunctivitis

Dog conjunctivitis occurs in the eye area. It's a common problem for dogs. Inflammation and infections usually set in with characteristic symptoms. Detecting this condition is by a visual examination of the eye. Treatment with ointments remains an effective remedy by the veterinarian.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Light
• Damp cloth
• Veterinarian
• Ointments

1. Get your dog in a relaxed mood.
2. Check the canine's eyes in a good light source. Know that only one eye might have conjunctivitis.
3. Look for bloodshot or pink to red coloring in the white area of the eye. The white part of the eye and the inside membrane lining the eyelids is called the conjunctiva.
4. See if the eyes have a mucous discharge.
5. Detect any yellow-green discharge around the eye area. This color usually indicates infection. Bacteria usually grow in this condition of conjunctivitis.
6. Notice crusty formations around the eyes. Clean the area with a damp cloth by gently rubbing away the crust.
7. Observe dry eyes with tear producing problems. Viral conjunctivitis commonly exhibits this symptom.

Tips & Warnings

• See a veterinarian for testing. Antibiotic and ophthalmic ointments and solutions prescribed by the vet normally cure conjunctivitis. Less common is parasitic conjunctivitis. The vet administers anti-parasitic eyewash to rid the parasite and eliminate infection.
• Common causes for developing dog conjunctivitis includes dust, dirt or eyelashes getting into the eyes, tear duct problems, allergies, bacteria and virus infections. With allergies notice if your dog constantly rubs at its eyes. Tear duct problems sometimes result from genetic defects. The name for this disorder is kerato conjunctivitis sicca.
• Check your dog's eyes weekly to detect problems early.