Why is my dog’s eye red and what are some treatments?

Original Question: Chocolate Lab has one eye that's really red. - Hodder

Why is my dog’s eye red and what are some treatments? Sep 26, 2017

Hi Hodder,

Thanks for your question

There is very little information in the question so I will answer based on the most common issues we see that could cause your dog’s eye to be red. As always, I recommend that my advice be taken in conjunction with a physical exam and consultation with your regular veterinarian.

However, I’ve always been in support of trying to treat things at home rather than instantly running to the animal clinic. The most important thing is that anything we treat with will not cause any harm. The first type of harm is obvious and that would be a treatment that is detrimental. The second type of harm is if we start treating a condition improperly and it is successful in reducing symptoms but it’s not curing the underlying condition and it progresses in the meantime. Having said that, I always tell clients that if they try a home remedy or over-the-counter medication, if the condition does not improve quickly or it returns soon after the treatment is finished, I recommend seeking veterinary help immediately.

There is no way for me to know what is going on with your dog’s eye but I can offer some thoughts. The most common reasons for a red inflamed eye would be an infection, physical trauma to the eye, or a hair or eyelid is rubbing and irritating the eye’s surface during blinking. I think it is relatively safe to use over-the-counter Polysporin as a trial to see if it clears up. This can eliminate an infection which often the most common problem. Any ocular medicine you find for humans will be pH balanced for the eye and this balance is the same for a dog’s eye, so none of them should cause irritation unless there is a rare sensitivity to some ingredient in the medication. If the symptoms resolve indefinitely then that’s great, if they return I would recommend visiting your veterinarian and having them diagnose it properly.

I hope this helps! Good luck!

Dr. Clayton Greenway


Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.

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