Is Red-Eyed Dog a Sign of Rabies?
One: Inflammation (Conjunctivitis) or Infection
The simplest treatment for canine conjunctivitis is to use dog eye drops, which are effective in combating bacteria and infections. Those containing honeysuckle can also help cool the body and alleviate heat. Typically, you'll see results within 1 to 2 days of use. It's wise to keep these eye drops on hand at home. When your dog's eyes are troubled, simply apply a few drops. Just ensure the area around the eyes is clean by using warm water or saline solution before applying the drops.
Additionally, eye irritation can be caused by foreign objects entering the eye or by trauma. Some dogs may have inwardly growing eyelashes that constantly irritate the cornea, leading to discomfort and symptoms such as red eyes and excessive tearing. If the eyelashes are too long, regular trimming or professional care at a pet store can help alleviate this issue.
Image of a dog suffering from conjunctivitis
Trauma to the eye can occur when a dog gets into a fight with another animal while out, or when they accidentally scratch their eye while scratching themselves. Both can result in red eyes, and while minor cases may heal on their own over time, severe cases require immediate veterinary attention.
Infection of the lacrimal glands can lead to dacryocystitis, causing excessive and abnormal tear production. Since the nasolacrimal duct may not be able to drain the excess tears promptly, this can result in excessive eye discharge and swelling.
As with conjunctivitis, treatment often involves eye drops and a diet that is easy on the stomach. Redness in the eyes can be treated with chloramphenicol, rifampin, or bear bile eye drops. Applying erythromycin ointment can also be effective; apply it hourly, using 1 to 2 drops each time. Improvement should be noticeable within a week.
Two: Symptoms of Rabies Infection
After a dog is infected with rabies, the symptoms generally progress through three stages: the prodromal stage, the excitation stage, and the paralysis stage. The prodromal stage is characterized by depression, aversion to light, dullness, lack of response to the owner's calls, and atypical eating habits. This stage typically lasts for 1 to 2 days.
The excitation stage, also known as the rabid phase, is marked by aggressive behavior, with the dog actively attacking humans and other animals. This is followed by periods of depression, lack of movement, and the potential for the dog to become frantic with minimal provocation. The eyes may become斜视, and the dog may bite its limbs and hindquarters. The paralysis stage involves the onset of total muscle paralysis, difficulty standing, and lying down, followed by seizures and eventually respiratory paralysis, leading to death.
Therefore, red eyes in dogs are not necessarily a sign of rabies. The best way to prevent rabies is through vaccination. Regular rabies vaccinations for your dog can stimulate the immune system to produce adequate immunity, significantly reducing the risk of rabies infection.
Dogs have become our loyal companions, and as pet owners, we are always vigilant about their physical and mental wellbeing.
Important Reminder:
Eye diseases are among the most common health issues in dogs. If you notice signs such as red eyes, excessive eye discharge, vision decline, or other symptoms, it's crucial to seek a veterinary examination and treatment promptly to prevent permanent vision loss.
