I don’t know what’s going on with my puppy’s eye, and I’m starting to really worry. This morning, right after breakfast, I noticed her left eye looks kind of red and watery, different from usual, and she keeps pawing at it like it’s bothering her. She’s usually such a happy ball of energy, but now she just seems so uncomfortable and isn’t playing as much. It’s been going on since yesterday afternoon and I thought maybe she just got some dirt in it or was being silly, but it doesn’t seem to be getting any better. I’m clueless about what’s happening and don’t want to overreact, but I’m afraid it might be something serious. Has anyone else seen this before? What should I do?
Thanks for reaching out — it’s always better to be proactive when it comes to eye issues in puppies. Puppies are curious little creatures, and their eyes are quite sensitive, so it's understandable to be worried. Eye issues can range from minor irritations to more serious conditions.
Potential causes for concerns with your puppy’s eye can include anything from a small foreign object, like dust or hair, to conjunctivitis, which is essentially an inflammation or infection of the outer eye. Irritation from something as simple as a shampoo or another substance could also be the culprit. Sometimes, it could be an early sign of more significant issues like infections or allergies.
At home, you can gently clean around the eye using a soft cloth dampened with warm water. Just make sure to avoid getting any soap or detergent in there. Look out for signs such as redness, swelling, a yellow or greenish discharge, excessive tearing, or if your puppy seems to be in pain or is scratching at the eye a lot. These may indicate a more serious problem that needs immediate attention.
If you notice any of these concerning signs or if the issue persists, I recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets at Dial A Vet. They can provide a closer look and help determine the exact cause of your puppy’s eye issue.
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