Have you noticed that your four-legged friend is always struggling with his eyes? Maybe you see him blinking, rubbing or even having some sort of discharge. It can be distressing to see your furry friend experiencing discomfort, but often there are simple explanations and solutions to such problems. In this blog post, we'll dive into the possible causes, from harmless specks of dust to more serious conditions, and explain what so-called 'groggy eyes' are all about.
Foreign body in the dog's eye
One of the most common reasons why dogs get something in their eye is foreign bodies such as dust, dirt or small insects. These can easily get into the eye when walking or romping around in the grass. The dog usually tries to remove the foreign body by blinking or rubbing it with its paw. If you notice that your dog is struggling with his eyes more often, it's a good idea to take a look and carefully try to solve the problem.
Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can also suffer from allergies that cause eye irritation. Pollen, dust mites or certain foods can cause allergic reactions that lead to itching, redness and discharge. If allergies are the cause, your vet can give specific treatments or dietary recommendations to alleviate the symptoms.
Infections and inflammation
Bacterial or viral infections and inflammation can also cause problems. Conjunctivitis, an inflammation of the conjunctiva, is a common condition in dogs and can cause redness, swelling, discharge and a constant feeling of "something in the eye". Appropriate medical treatment is essential to prevent the condition from worsening.
Dry eyes
Keratoconjunctivitis sicca or "dry eyes" is a condition in which not enough tear fluid is produced to moisturize the eye. This can lead to a feeling as if something is constantly in the eye. Dry eyes often require special eye drops or ointments to restore moisture and relieve discomfort.
Injuries
Scratches or injuries on the surface of the eye can also cause the feeling that something is constantly in the eye. Such injuries should be taken seriously and examined by a veterinarian to prevent infection and ensure proper healing.
If your dog has regular eye problems, there are many possible explanations. From simple foreign bodies to more serious health problems, the range can be wide. A watchful eye and regular grooming can prevent or detect many of these problems early. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, the safest choice is always to consult a vet. After all, your dog's eye health should never be taken lightly.
