has anyone else noticed their dog's eyes constantly closing or looking super droopy? My pup has been squinting a lot lately, and I'm a bit worried. Is this something to be concerned about?

Hi there! It's totally understandable to be concerned when your pup isn't acting quite like their usual self. If your dog's eyes are closing or looking droopy, it might suggest a few things, like they could be feeling discomfort or pain, possibly from something like conjunctivitis, a scratch on the cornea, or even allergies.

Here are some symptoms to keep an eye on:

• Excessive squinting or blinking
• Red or swollen eyes
• Discharge from the eyes (clear or colored)
• Frequent rubbing or pawing at the eyes
• Sensitivity to light

In terms of what's a true emergency versus what can wait, here's a guideline:

• Emergency: If your pup's eye symptoms come on suddenly, if there's a visible injury, if the eye looks cloudy or bulging, or if they're in significant distress or pain, you should see a vet ASAP. These could require immediate attention to prevent more serious issues.
• Monitor at Home: If it seems more like mild irritation or it's been a gradual change, you can try gently rinsing their eyes with a sterile saline solution to see if it helps, and monitor for a day or two.

Make sure they're not rubbing or scratching their eyes more, as this can cause further damage. If you have an e-collar (cone), this might be a good time to use it gently.

Keep in mind that environmental factors like pollen, dust, or smoke can sometimes cause temporary irritation. Monitoring those possible triggers at home can also help in managing the situation.

If your dog's symptoms do not improve in a couple of days, or if they worsen, it's best to be on the safer side. Book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.