I just noticed Bella's third eyelid showing and she's squinting a lot. Should I be freaking out? Is this serious? I'm so worried! Do I need to call a vet immediately? Could this be from that toy she grabbed off the counter earlier?

Answer

Hey there! I totally get why you're worried about Bella, but let's take a deep breath and go through this together. Seeing a dog's third eyelid and squinting can be concerning, but it's not always an emergency. Here's what to keep an eye on:

  • If Bella's third eyelid is showing and she's squinting, it could be due to irritation, infection, or injury. Sometimes, dogs get something in their eye, or it could be conjunctivitis.
  • Check for any redness, swelling, or discharge. If it’s yellow, green, or has an unusual odor, those are signs that there might be an infection.
  • Watch her behavior. Is she rubbing her eye a lot or acting more lethargic than usual?

As for the toy, if Bella chewed on or swallowed part of it, you'll want to ensure none of it got lodged in or scratched her eye. If you suspect she ate something from the toy, like stuffing or squeakers, monitor for vomiting or discomfort considered beyond the eye issue.

Here’s what you can safely do at home:

  • Keep the area around the eye clean. You can gently wipe it with a soft damp cloth.
  • Try to prevent her from rubbing or scratching the eye. If this seems difficult, consider a soft cone to protect the area.
  • Ensure she’s staying hydrated and comfortable.

If her eye looks a lot worse, or if the symptoms last more than a day or two without improvement, it's a good idea to reach out to a vet. A quick call is also wise if you're seeing unexpected changes in her eating, drinking, or energy levels.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.

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