Eye Injuries in Dogs
When a dog suddenly squints one eye shut, or it suddenly appears cloudy, milky or red and he does not want to be touched on the head, there is often an emergency that makes a visit to the veterinary practice necessary. Eye injuries are usually extremely painful and can lead to serious consequences such as blindness.
What you should do first
First you must calm the animal and absolutely try to stop it rubbing its eye. That is of course the first reaction, but it can lead to the situation getting worse. It is best to take a small dog on your lap, and to control a large dog by sitting down next to him and holding the corresponding front paw firmly. Above all, talk soothingly to the animal. It is ideal if you can ask another person for help. This person can call the practice and announce the visit. The dog should not be let out of your sight for a single second.
In an emergency every second counts
Should the emergency arise that an eye has fallen out of the eye socket, which can certainly happen with small short-nosed dogs, you must at all costs prevent the eye from drying out. It may take a little courage, but you can save the eye this way. Take a moistened, clean cloth or a gauze swab and carefully push the eye back into the eye socket. I know that this takes some overcoming, but it is your dog and your task in this moment.
- Calm the animal immediately and stop it rubbing
- In the case of chemical burns, rinse the eye surface without delay
- Never remove a foreign body on your own
- Immediate transport to a veterinary facility
In any case, visit the veterinary practice
Often every second counts. Foreign bodies in the eye, however, you must leave in place and drive to the practice or clinic immediately. If the dog has suffered a chemical burn to the eye, every second counts too. First aid then consists of rinsing the eye under running water for at least 10 minutes. Here you should get help from a second person who holds the dog and carefully spreads the eyelids.
Our recommendation for support
For the eyes and the general health of older dogs, we recommend a comprehensive supply that combines vitamins, minerals and special joint protection. This helps to enable a good standard of health even in advanced age.
This article serves as general information and for quick help in an emergency for your dog's health.
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The content of the articles is for general information purposes only and does not replace diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian. This information does not constitute medical advice and should not be construed as such.
