Like us humans, our furry friends also need eye care from time to time; these can include using eye drops for a variety of different reasons. You might even be wondering why are your dogs pawing at their eyes and if they need eye drops.
Do pet owners apply eye drops for their dogs if their dogs have no apparent eye problems? We usually apply only when we see redness, or discharge or when the vet prescribes, but seldom do we apply on a daily basis for dogs with no eye problems. Humans apply eye drops when our eyes are dry or tired. How do we know our dogs’eyes are dry and tired? We may not always know and its ok to apply 2 to 3 times a day to dogs with no eye issues, to keep their eyes moist and fresh. Something not too strong like Tears Naturale or Refresh eye drops would be safe for them.
Unfortunately, our dogs can also suffer from seasonal allergies, allergies to household cleaners, shampoos and any other products we use. Eye drops for dogs could be recommended if these eye symptoms persist:
• Redness
• Squinting
• Clear, watery discharge
• Pawing at eyes
Don’t hesitate to check with your vet if you suspect your dog is suffering from an allergy.
Dogs with dry eyes, especially long term dry eyes and owners do not administer eyes drops or eye gel are susceptible to have ulceration and scarring on the cornea, which may eventually lead to vison impairment.
Canine glaucoma is a condition characterised by high pressure inside the eye. It is a very painful condition that often causes blindness, especially if it’s left untreated. When glaucoma develops, urgent veterinary treatment is essential. Unfortunately, it can’t be cured but it can be managed with eye drops for dogs to preserve eyesight as long as possible. Signs of glaucoma include:
• Severe eye pain
• Cloudy/blue eyes
• Weepy eyes
• Blindness
• Redness
• Bulging eyes
• Uneven pupils
• Conjunctivitis
Lastly, let us leave you with some tips for applying eye drops to your furkids:
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after
• Use a wet and warm washcloth to clean the area around your dog’s eye gently.
• Cradle your dog’s head firmly
• Using your dominant hand, hold the eyedrop bottle with your thumb and index finger. Pull down your dog’s lower lid with your other thumb. If you’re doing this alone, the rest of your fingers on that hand can support your dog’s jaw
• Without touching the eye, place the bottle close to the eye and squeeze the prescribed amount into the centre. Naturally, your dog will blink a few times, which helps to spread the medicine around the eye.
• A process like this might require a treat after you’re done! And remember to give lots of praise!
If you think your dog is suffering from any kind of eye condition, remember to consult a vet before administering any kind of eye drop. Early and consistent care for your pooches’ eyes might save you lots of heartache and vet bills in the future.
