My dog's eyes are watering, what should I do? - briefly
If your dog's eyes are watering, it could be due to allergies, irritants, or an infection. Consult your veterinarian immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
My dog's eyes are watering, what should I do? - in detail
If your dog's eyes are watering, it could be due to a variety of reasons ranging from minor irritants to more serious health issues. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what you should do:
Firstly, observe your dog closely for any other symptoms that might accompany the watery eyes. This can include redness, swelling, discharge (clear or colored), squinting, pawing at the eye, or sensitivity to light. These additional signs can provide crucial clues about the underlying cause.
Common causes of watery eyes in dogs can be categorized into several groups:
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Environmental Irritants: Dust, pollen, smoke, and other airborne particles can irritate your dog's eyes. If you notice this happening outdoors or when exposed to certain substances, try to remove the irritant from the environment.
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Injury: A scratch or foreign object in the eye can cause excessive tearing. Look for any signs of trauma, and if found, consult a veterinarian immediately. Avoid attempting to remove any foreign objects yourself as it could worsen the injury.
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Allergies: Dogs can suffer from allergic reactions similar to humans. Common allergens include grass, mold, dust mites, and certain foods. If you suspect an allergy, consult your veterinarian for appropriate testing and treatment options.
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Infection: Bacterial or viral infections can lead to watery eyes. Conjunctivitis (pink eye) is a common infection that affects dogs. Symptoms may include redness, swelling, and a discharge from the eyes. If you suspect an infection, do not attempt to treat it with human eye drops; instead, seek veterinary care.
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Eye Conditions: Certain health conditions such as dry eye (keratoconjunctivitis sicca) or glaucoma can cause watery eyes. Dry eye is a result of inadequate tear production, while glaucoma is characterized by increased pressure within the eyeball, which can be very painful and requires immediate veterinary attention.
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Blocked Tear Ducts: If your dog's tears are not draining properly, it can lead to constant watering of the eyes. This condition may require surgical intervention to correct.
To provide initial relief at home:
- Gently wipe away any discharge from your dog’s eye using a clean, damp cloth or sterile saline solution. Be careful not to rub the eye, as this can cause further irritation.
- Keep your dog's environment clean and free of potential irritants.
- Ensure that your dog has access to fresh water at all times to help keep their eyes hydrated and comfortable.
However, it is essential to consult a veterinarian if:
- The watering persists for more than 24 hours.
- Your dog shows signs of pain or discomfort.
- There is any change in the color or consistency of the eye discharge.
- You notice swelling, redness, or sensitivity to light.
Your veterinarian can perform a thorough examination and, if necessary, run diagnostic tests such as a Schirmer Tear Test to measure tear production or a fluorescein stain test to check for corneal scratches or ulcers. Based on the findings, your vet may prescribe medication, suggest lifestyle changes, or recommend surgery in severe cases.
In summary, while some instances of watery eyes in dogs can be managed at home with simple measures, it is crucial to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment to ensure your dog's overall eye health and well-being.