As a pet parent, seeing your dog with red eyes can be concerning. Dogs rely heavily on their eyes to explore the world, play, and communicate with you. Therefore, when their eyes appear red, it’s essential to take action promptly.
Common Reasons Behind Red Eyes
Red eyes in dogs often indicate an issue with the blood vessels in the sclera, the white part of the eye. These blood vessels become more visible and engorged when there is an underlying problem affecting the eye.
Accompanying redness, you might notice your dog blinking excessively or squinting, which are additional signs of distress.
1. Allergies
Just like humans, dogs can experience allergies that lead to red, irritated eyes. Environmental triggers like dust and pollen can cause these allergic reactions, which may be seasonal or persistent throughout the year.
2. Corneal Ulcers
Corneal ulcers, resulting from infections or trauma, can prompt the formation of new blood vessels on the cornea. If untreated, these ulcers can escalate, potentially leading to blindness.
3. Conjunctivitis
Commonly known as “pink eye,” conjunctivitis inflames the inner eyelids and sclera. It can be spread among dogs in close proximity, causing redness and swelling in the eyes.
4. Glaucoma
Glaucoma, characterized by elevated eye pressure, can result from genetic predispositions or secondary factors like eye diseases or injuries. Without intervention, glaucoma can severely impact a dog’s vision.
5. Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca (KCS)
KCS, or dry eye syndrome, occurs when tear glands don’t produce enough tears, leading to corneal dryness and potential ulcers. This condition is painful and requires immediate attention.
6. Infections
Viral infections like canine distemper and herpes, as well as bacterial infections such as leptospirosis and kennel cough, can cause redness in a dog’s eyes. Preventive vaccines are available for some of these infections.
7. Trauma
Just like getting something in your own eye is bothersome, foreign objects like wood chips can irritate a dog’s eye, leading to redness. Always seek veterinary help for such cases.
What You Should Do
While the causes of red eyes in dogs are varied, you don’t need to pinpoint the exact issue. What’s crucial is recognizing the redness and seeking veterinary care promptly. Your vet will conduct tests to diagnose the underlying cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.