Conjunctivitis is an eye condition that we humans can have, but unfortunately also our four-legged friend. It is characterized by inflammation of the inner membrane that lines the eyelids, causing itching and secretions.
In more serious cases, this membrane can become infected and, unless treated as soon as possible, the dog could partially or completely lose vision. To avoid this, we explain how to know if my dog has conjunctivitis.
Causes of canine conjunctivitis
There are many causes that can cause conjunctivitis in our furry friend. The most commons are:
- Allergy: either to dust, pollen or the products we use to clean the house.
- Infections: Both viral and bacterial diseases can cause conjunctivitis.
- Ulcers: If you have had an accident and an ulcer has formed in your eyes, the inner membrane of your eyes can become inflamed.
- Malformation of the eyelidIf the eyelid has not developed as it should, the dog is at high risk of conjunctivitis.
- Distemper or hepatitis: both diseases present this condition as one of the first symptoms.
Symptom
The symptoms that a dog with conjunctivitis has are:
- Difficulty opening your eyes.
- Eye secretions: They will be watery and colorless if it is mild, but will turn greenish or yellowish if it worsens.
- Reject the light.
- Itching
- Redness of the eyes
Tips
If you suspect that your friend has conjunctivitis, take him to the vet ASAP. There, they will examine your eyes and give you an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory medication - usually an eye drop or cream - that you should apply regularly. For it, it is very important that you wash your hands before and after the treatmentas otherwise it could infect you. For this reason, if you have children you should also make sure that they wash their hands before touching the animal and afterwards.
So your dog can have his beautiful look again 🙂.