Red, Swollen Eyes: What to Do for a Dog's Discomfort

Understanding and Treating Your Dog's Swollen Eyes:

1. HeatInduced Irritation

Firstly, consider if your furry friend might be suffering from heatrelated irritation. If the redness in their eyes is accompanied by sticky, mucousy discharge, it's likely a case of heatinduced discomfort. In such instances, it's crucial for pet owners to adjust their dog's diet, encourage plenty of water intake, and avoid feeding human food.

2. Foreign Object Ingress

Should only one eye show redness and have discharge, it could be due to a foreign object. In such cases, using a specific eye solution for dogs can help dislodge and remove the intruder.

3. Viral or Bacterial Infection

Red eyes with mucous discharge can also be a sign of viral or bacterial infections. If your dog's eyes are affected by bacteria or fungi, antibiotic eye drops may be necessary for treatment.

4. Entropion

Entropion, where the eyelids roll inward, can lead to red, inflamed eyes, increased tear production, and mucous discharge. While mild cases may heal on their own, most often, it's advisable to consult a veterinarian for potential surgical intervention.

5. Keratitis

Keratitis, often caused by scratching the eye due to a foreign object, can result from minor injuries or can be a progression from severe conjunctivitis. Treatment typically involves using antibiotic eye drops specifically formulated for dogs.

6. Corneal Ulcers

Corneal ulcers are typically caused by eye injuries, entropion, or keratitis. Symptoms include sticky discharge, excessive tearing, and eye pain that can lead to eyelid spasms, making it difficult for the dog to fully open their eyes. While mild cases may respond to medication, surgery may be required in some instances. It's important to note that delayed treatment of corneal ulcers can lead to blindness.