How to check a dog's eyes? - briefly
To ensure your dog's eye health, regularly inspect their eyes for any signs of redness, discharge, or cloudiness. Additionally, monitor their behavior for changes in vision, such as bumping into objects or appearing disoriented.
How to check a dog's eyes? - in detail
Checking your dog's eyes is an essential aspect of maintaining their overall health and well-being. Regular eye examinations can help detect any underlying issues early, preventing potential complications. Here is a detailed guide on how to check your dog's eyes:
Firstly, ensure that you have a quiet and well-lit environment. This will make it easier for both you and your dog to stay calm during the examination. Begin by gently lifting their eyelids one at a time, using your thumb to lift the upper lid and your index finger to lift the lower lid. Look for any signs of redness, discharge, or inflammation in the conjunctiva, which is the pink tissue lining the eyelids.
Next, observe the color of the sclera, which is the white part of the eye. It should appear bright and clear. Any cloudiness or yellowing could indicate an underlying health issue that requires veterinary attention. Also, check for any signs of discharge around the eyes. While a small amount of clear discharge can be normal, excessive or colored discharge may suggest an infection or allergy.
While still holding the eyelid, inspect the eye itself for any abnormalities. Look for changes in the shape or position of the pupil, which should be round and responsive to light. If one pupil appears larger than the other or fails to constrict when exposed to light, this could indicate a neurological issue or glaucoma. Additionally, check for any signs of cataracts, which appear as a cloudy or blue-gray film over the lens.
Finally, observe your dog's behavior during and after the examination. If they seem uncomfortable, squinting, or pawing at their eyes, these could be indications of pain or discomfort that warrant further investigation by a veterinarian.
Regularly checking your dog's eyes can help you establish a baseline for what is normal for your pet. This will enable you to recognize any changes or abnormalities more easily and seek prompt veterinary care if necessary.