Why Are My Dog’s Eyes Red in Rye, NH?

If you have ever noticed your dog’s eyes looking a bit red and wondered what could be causing it, you are not alone. Many pet owners experience this same issue and wonder why their pup’s eyes have suddenly taken on a reddish hue.

It is possible that your dog’s eyes are red due to an underlying medical condition such as an infection, allergies, or an eye injury. If the redness is accompanied by other symptoms such as discharge, pain, or excessive squinting, it is important to take your dog to the vet as soon as possible for a diagnosis and treatment.

Red eyes in dogs can be a sign of various eye issues, ranging from minor irritations to serious diseases. This article will explain why your dog’s eyes may be red and what treatments are available.

What Causes Red Eyes in Dogs?

Red eyes in dogs can be caused by a variety of factors, including allergies, injury or trauma, and infection.

Allergies

Allergies are one of the most common causes of red eyes in dogs, as their eyes may become irritated by exposure to environmental allergens like pollen, dust, and molds.

Injury or Trauma

Injury or trauma to the eye area can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort.

Infection

Infections such as conjunctivitis can also cause your dog to have red eyes, as they are highly contagious and may require antibiotics to clear up. In all cases, it is important to seek veterinary care if your dog’s eyes appear red or irritated, as this could be a sign of a more serious underlying issue.

Symptoms of Red Eyes

Red eyes in dogs can be caused by a variety of conditions. Common symptoms associated with red eyes in dogs include excessive tearing, squinting, discharge from the eyes, itching, redness, swelling, and light sensitivity. If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, it is important to contact your veterinarian as soon as possible to determine the cause and get the proper treatment.

Swelling and Irritation

Swelling and irritation of the eyes are common symptoms of red eyes in dogs. The eyes may become red, swollen, and painful, and there may be a discharge from the eyes. In some cases, the eyes may even become encrusted with a yellowish-green discharge.

Discharge from the Eye

Discharge from the eye is something that can also be caused. It can come in different forms such as mucus, pus, or tears. The color of the discharge can vary from clear to yellow or green. Redness and inflammation around the eyes are also common signs of red eyes in dogs and may be accompanied by increased tearing and light sensitivity.

Squinting or Pawing at the Eye

Squinting or pawing at the eye is a common symptom of this condition. This can be caused by allergies, infections, or foreign bodies like dust or debris irritating the surface of the eye. When the eye is irritated, the dog may squint to try and reduce the discomfort or paw at it to try and remove the source of irritation. If your dog is squinting or pawing at its eye, it is important to seek veterinary care to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment.

How to Treat Red Eyes in Dogs

Treating red eyes in dogs can be tricky and it is best to consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying cause. If the redness is due to an infection, your vet may prescribe antibiotics or other medications. Some things you can do to treat red eyes include:

Cleaning the Eye

To clean the eyes, start by wetting a soft cloth or cotton ball with warm water. Gently wipe away any discharge from the corners of the eyes, taking care not to get any in the eye itself. If the area is red and irritated, you may want to use an over-the-counter canine tear stain remover. After cleaning, be sure to dry the area thoroughly before letting your pup go about their day.

Administering Medication

If the vet has prescribed medication, you can administer it yourself. First, be sure to read all instructions carefully and follow the dosage and frequency as prescribed. Make sure you understand any possible side effects.

• If the medication is a liquid, place a few drops in the corner of the eye, making sure not to touch the dropper to the eye.
• If the medication is an ointment, use a clean fingertip to apply a thin layer to the affected area.

Gently close the eye and massage the area around it. If your pet resists, don’t worry – this can be normal. Speak softly and calmly to your pet and provide a treat afterward.

Consulting a Veterinarian

It is important to remember that although these treatments may provide temporary relief, consulting a veterinarian is the best way to determine the cause of the redness and receive proper treatment.

Treating Allergies

Allergies can also cause red eyes, and the vet may recommend antihistamines. In addition, you should keep your dog away from any potential irritants, such as smoke, dust, chemicals, and pollen. Treating allergies in dogs to alleviate red eyes is something that can be done to reduce discomfort and improve the quality of life of your pet.

Allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, from sneezing and itching to red, watery eyes. If left untreated, the eyes may become swollen and painful. The best way to address this issue is to identify and avoid the allergen causing the reaction. If this isn’t possible, antihistamines or other medications may be prescribed to help control the symptoms. In some cases, an eye ointment or drops may be necessary to provide relief.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if your dog’s eyes are red, it is important to take them to the vet as soon as possible for a diagnosis and treatment. Red eyes in dogs can be a sign of various eye issues, so it is essential that you seek medical advice if you are concerned about your pup’s eyes.

Call our hospital at (603) 431-8785 or make an appointment if you have any questions at all related to your dog’s health and wellbeing.