My dog's eye is super red and swollen right now, and I'm freaking out because I think he got soap in it during his bath—should I be doing something specific to help him?

Earlier this evening while giving my dog a bath, I think some soap might have gotten into his eye. Now it's really red and swollen, and I'm pretty worried about how uncomfortable he must be. Should I try rinsing it out more, or is there something else I should be doing to help relieve his discomfort?

Answer

Your dog’s eye irritation caused by soap is concerning, but there are steps you can take to help alleviate his discomfort and assess the situation further.

  • Rinse the affected eye with clean, lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes.
  • Watch for signs of improvement or worsening symptoms.
  • Consult a veterinarian if the redness and swelling persist or worsen.

When soap inadvertently gets into your dog’s eye, it can cause irritation leading to redness and swelling. First, try to calmly flush the eye gently with clean, lukewarm water for about 10-15 minutes to help remove any remaining soap. It's important to avoid using any harsh substances or medications meant for human use in the eye. If you don't notice improvement or if symptoms worsen, it is best to reach out to a vet for further guidance.

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

  • Can I use eye drops for humans to treat my dog's eye irritation?

    It's not recommended to use human eye drops on your dog without consulting a vet, as certain ingredients can be harmful to pets.

  • What signs should I look for to indicate my dog needs urgent veterinary care?

    If your dog shows signs of pain, excessive tearing, squinting, or if the redness and swelling worsen, seek veterinary care promptly.

  • How can I prevent this from happening again during baths?

    Consider using a pet-safe eye lubricant before baths to protect the eyes, and be mindful of keeping soap away from your pet's face.

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

Recommended for Dog Owners

Embark Breed + Health Dog DNA Test

18,899 Reviews

The most comprehensive dog DNA test. Screen for 270+ genetic health risks and identify breeds from 350+ breeds, types & varieties.

$199$139Save $60

Free US Shipping · Veterinarian Developed

Still worried? Chat to a real vet.

Book a fast telehealth consult for personalised guidance and next steps.

Book a consult

Next available appointment

Loading…