Damage to the front of the eye is called a corneal ulcer.It is important to know if your dog has an injured eye.If enough of the eye's surface is eroded, the dog may lose his sight.If you know what to look for, you will be able to help your dog get proper care.
Step 1: Your dog is rubbing her eye
The naked eye can't see the Ulcers.Your first clue that there is a problem is that the dog's eye hurts and it will bother her.A painful eye is caused by rubbing at the eye.This can be accomplished by rubbing the affected side of the face along the ground or with a paw.
Step 2: Be aware of squinting.
Your dog might rub her eye and squint with it partially closed.To determine if your dog is squinting, look at the dog and compare the size of both eyes.The dog may be squinting if one eye looks smaller than the other.
Step 3: Look for redness in the eyes.
The eye may become wet from the pain and discomfort.It is possible that the area beneath the eye is wet or damp.
Step 4: It's a good idea to check for red or cloudy eyes.
The white of the eye may be red if the dog has a corneal ulcer.The normally clear surface of the cornea may appear cloudy.This could be a film over the eye.
Step 5: Look for the discharge.
A discharge from the eye can be caused by a corneal ulcer.Your dog may have a discharge.The discharge may accumulate in the corner of the eye.
Step 6: The eye is sensitive.
Your dog may be sensitive to light because of the pain.She may shy away from bright lights.Your dog may keep the eye closed.
Step 7: Know that the symptoms aren't specific.
All of the signs are not specific.Similar symptoms can be caused by reasons other than a corneal ulcer.Regardless of the cause, the dog needs to see a vet in order to diagnose the problem and be relieved of pain.
Step 8: Look at the dog's eye.
If you have good eyesight, you can look for broken or shattered reflections by inspecting the surface of the eye.The smooth surface of the cornea will be disrupted if there is a corneal ulcer.This may be visible in good light and look like a jump, shatter, or kink in a reflection.The eye needs to be checked by a vet if it looks misty, frosted, or has reflections.
Step 9: Go to the vet.
Take your dog to the vet if you think she has eye trauma.The vet will look at both eyes to determine which is the problem and how sore it is.The vet will look for anything that might be rubbing on the surface of the cornea, such as an inturned eyelash, which could cause an ulcer.
Step 10: There is a dye test.
A test that changes color in the presence of damaged corneal epithelia is the definitive test for a corneal ulcer.The dye, fluorescein, is orange but green.The vet will place a few drops of fluorescein into the eye and wipe it off with cotton wool.With and without magnification, the eye is observed.The size, depth, and shape of the corneal ulcer will be shown by a green stain.
Step 11: If you want a UV light test, ask.
Even with fluorescein, it can be difficult to see the ulcers.A UV light test can be performed on your dog if this is the case.The vet will light a UV light source on the eye if the room is dark.This will make it easier to see.
Step 12: The proper treatment for your dog.
Some wounds heal on their own within a few days.It's not possible to know if the ulcer will heal on its own, so treatment is needed to prevent secondary infections.The vet will probably give your dog eye drops containing antibiotics that should be used two to four times a day, or drops which form a protective bandage layer over the surface of the cornea.A cone collar is necessary to prevent the dog from rubbing her eye.Since the health of your dog's eye is at stake, keep follow-up appointments.Some ulcers are resistant to treatment and may need a surgical procedure.
Step 13: A corneal ulcer is something to know.
Light can pass unimpeded into the eye for it to be processed, thanks to the clear cornea.There is damage to the outer layer of the eye.If it eats through one of the inner layers, the eye may perforate.A shallow ulcer is similar to a scratch on your skin.The more layers are damaged, the deeper the ulcer.
Step 14: The causes need to be identified.
There are certain conditions that can cause a dog to get a corneal ulcer.Injuries to the eye are the most common reason for ulcers.Chemicals, dirt and ingrown eyelashes can hurt the eye and cause an ulcer.It can be caused by smoke and infections.
Step 15: Look closely at active dogs.
Since eye trauma can happen to any dog, you need to watch it.A dog's eye can be injured if they get excited easily.Cats can get an ulcer if they fight.Dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors are more likely to hurt their eyes.
Step 16: The breeds that are at a higher risk are known.
There is a chance that all dogs can get a corneal ulcer.Because of the tendency of eyelashes to irritate their eyes, certain breeds with prominent eyes and flat faces are at a higher risk.The most at risk are the Pugs and Boston Terrier.