Why is my dog suddenly squinting and tearing up just after our walk? Should I be worried something got in his eye?

After our walk this afternoon, I noticed that my dog was squinting and his eye seemed to be tearing up quite a bit. I'm worried that something might have gotten into his eye during our time outside. Could it be something serious that needs a vet's attention, or is there a way for me to check and help relieve his discomfort?

Answer

It’s concerning to see your dog squinting and tearing up after a walk, as this may indicate irritation or a foreign object in the eye. It's important to assess the severity of the issue to determine if veterinary help is needed.

  • Look for any visible foreign bodies in your dog's eye.
  • Consider flushing the eye with saline solution if the irritation seems mild.
  • Monitor your dog for any signs of ongoing discomfort or worsening symptoms.

When dogs squint or have watery eyes after being outside, it can be due to dust, pollen, or a foreign object such as a small piece of grass. Carefully examine your dog's eye for any visible particles. If nothing is seen, you can try to gently flush the eye with saline solution, available at most pharmacies, to see if this alleviates the irritation. However, if your dog continues to show signs of discomfort, it’s a good idea to consult a veterinarian to rule out a more serious issue, like a scratch on the eye or an infection.

Book a consultation with a licensed vet at Dial A Vet for just $49 AUD if you're unsure or symptoms are getting worse.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How can I tell if something is stuck in my dog's eye?

    Look for visible debris or foreign objects, such as grass or dust, and notice if your dog continues to squint or paw at the eye.

  • What should I use to flush my dog's eye?

    Use a saline solution, as it is gentle and safe for the eyes to help remove any irritants.

  • When should I contact a vet?

    If the symptoms persist after flushing, or if there's redness, swelling, or any discharge from the eye, it's important to consult a vet.

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