Dog Eye Care

Why is dog eye care important?

Dogs are prone to a number of eye problems. Much like humans, dogs’ eyes are sensitive and susceptible to irritation and infection. Your dog might also suffer from conditions like glaucoma, tear staining, cherry eye, and more. An eye care routine plays an essential role in keeping your dog’s eyes healthy. Your dog might also benefit from medications and/or supplements to help meet their specific needs.

What are the most common types of eye infection in dogs?

Eye infections can be caused by a number of factors, including fungus, bacteria, viruses, parasites, trauma, injury, foreign matter, and irritants. The most frequently-reported types of eye infection are:

• Corneal inflammation
• Tear glad and eyelid abnormalities
• Uveitis (inflammation of the choroid, ciliary body, and/or iris)
• Conjunctivitis, otherwise known as pink eye (inflammation of the conjunctiva)

What are the signs of an eye infection in dogs?

• Pawing at the eye
• Squinting
• Sensitivity to light
• Keeping eye closed
• Thick or watery discharge (often with an odor)
• Swelling
• Redness
• Excessive blinking

What antibiotics or medications are best for treating eye infections in dogs?

If your dog is suffering from an eye infection, your veterinarian will work with you to determine the appropriate treatment. Some of the most frequently-prescribed antibiotics and medicated treatments for eye infections include:

• Optimmune Ophthalmic Ointment is commonly prescribed to treat keratoconjunctivitis (dry eye).
• Latanoprost Ophthalmic Solution is frequently prescribed to dogs with glaucoma or high eye pressure.
• Neo Poly Dex Ophthalmic Suspension combines NSAID dexamethasone with antibiotic neomycin and polymyxin B. It is often prescribed to treat severe conjunctivitis, non-ulcerative keratitis, and a number of corneal conditions.
• Terramycin Ophthalmic Ointment is an antibiotic ointment containing oxytetracycline and polymyxin B. Veterinarians frequently prescribe this ointment to treat superficial and ocular eye infections, corneal ulcers, pink eye, and conjunctivitis.
• I-Drop Vet Plus Ophthalmic Solution is a non-prescription solution that lubricates, soothes, and restores the eyes of dogs with ocular surface disorders.
• Flurbiprofen 0.03% Ophthalmic Drops are prescription-only NSAID drops that treat eye inflammation.

Your vet might prescribe a different product and/or an oral antibiotic. They might also suggest a supplement to aid in the relief of eye conditions.

What steps can I take to keep my dog’s eyes healthy?

Cleaning your dog’s eyes during baths is a great first step in an eye care routine. It’s also a great idea to gently wipe away any noticeable debris or discharge before it has a chance to develop into a problem. If you notice any redness, irritation, swelling, or signs of discomfort, reach out to your veterinarian.

• What eye rinses are safe for dogs? One of the most popular eye washes available at Allivet is Vetericyn Plus Antimicrobial Eye Wash. This rinse relieves ocular abrasions and irritation, removing debris and preventing infections. Another great product is I-Lid 'n Lash, a gel that prevents tear staining, reduces eye inflammation, and removes crust and debris.
• What can I use to keep my dog’s eyes clean? For convenient, on-the-go removal of light staining or debris, Optixcare Eye Cleaning Wipes are a handy option. You can also use a damp cotton ball or a soft, moistened cloth to gently wipe away dirt and contamination.
• How can I remove tear stains from my dog’s eyes? Tear stain prevention starts from within. You’ll want to keep your dog’s eyes as clean as possible, but a supplement like NaturVet Tear Stain Soft Chews or Pala-Tech ForSight Soft Chews can help prevent tear stains from forming in the future. Cleaning your dog’s eyes with a product like I-Lid 'n Lash or NaturVet Tear Stain Remover can help with the removal of surface staining.
• What eye drops are best for my dog? In addition to those listed above, some other great options include OcluVet Eye Drops, C-Bright Lubricating Ophthalmic Drops, and GenTeal Tears Lubricant Eye Drops. Drops can be a great complement to a comprehensive eye care regimen.

As previously mentioned, a supplement might also go a long way to support your dog’s eye health. Reach out to the Allivet pharmacists at 1-877-500-9944 if you have any questions about the products offered by Allivet, or talk to your veterinarian if you believe your dog might be suffering from an eye infection or other ocular condition.