Name: Veterinary Services
Brand: Town and Country Animal Hospital

Your dog’s eyes are incredibly sensitive, and even small issues can quickly become serious. At Town and Country Animal Hospital, we want pet owners to feel confident knowing what to look for and when to take action.

In this week’s Vet Video Series, Dr. Delia Large-Hart shares how to recognize eye problems early and why prompt care matters.

👀 Recognizing the Signs of Eye Problems

Catching eye issues early can make all the difference.

Watch for:

Discharge from the eyes
- Clear discharge may be normal (epiphora)
- Green or yellow discharge is more likely infection
Squinting or excessive blinking
Redness or swelling
Pawing or scratching at the eye

These symptoms can indicate irritation, infection, or injury and should always be taken seriously.

Common Eye Conditions in Dogs

Some of the most common eye issues we see include:

Eye infections, often caused by bacteria like staph, strep, or pseudomonas
Corneal abrasions or ulcers, from scratches or debris
Foreign material in the eye, such as dirt or grass seeds

More serious conditions, like proptosis (eye displacement), can occur and require immediate care.

⚠️ Why Eye Issues Should Never Be Ignored

One of the most important takeaways:

There is no such thing as a minor eye issue.

Because the eye is so delicate, problems can worsen quickly. Early treatment can prevent pain, complications, and even vision loss.

If something looks off, it’s always best to have your dog evaluated right away.

Breed-Specific Eye Risks

Certain breeds are more prone to specific eye conditions:

Short-nosed (brachycephalic) breeds
More likely to develop dry eye and ulcers
Some working and shepherd breeds
May develop pannus
Jack Russell Terriers
More prone to lens luxation due to genetics

While breed tendencies can guide us, every dog is evaluated individually to ensure the right diagnosis and treatment plan.

How We Evaluate Your Dog’s Eyes

During an exam, we perform simple, effective tests to assess vision and eye health:

Menace response to check visual awareness
Pupillary light reflex (PLR) to evaluate nerve function
Dazzle reflex to assess response to light

These tests help us determine how well your dog can see and guide next steps for treatment.

Treatment: Why Acting Early Matters

Eye conditions are treated based on the underlying issue, but one principle always applies:

Early and proactive treatment leads to better outcomes.

Treatment may include:

Antibiotic eye medications
Anti-inflammatory therapies
Supportive treatments to promote healing

In more advanced cases, referral to a veterinary ophthalmologist may be recommended.

When a Specialist Is Needed

Veterinary ophthalmologists are essential for:

Cataract surgery
Complex or non-healing conditions
Advanced eye procedures

However, starting with your primary veterinarian is the best first step. We can evaluate, begin treatment, and guide you if a referral is needed.

Eye Care at Home

There are simple steps you can take to help protect your dog’s eyes:

Rinse eyes after outdoor activities, especially in fields or wooded areas
Use a gentle eye wash if debris is present
Avoid rubbing or applying pressure to the eye

Consistent care at home can help prevent irritation and catch problems early.

A Quick Reminder About Medications

Not all pet medications are interchangeable.

Some medications that are safe for dogs can be dangerous for cats. Always check with your veterinarian before using any medication at home.

Dog Eye Care: What Every Pet Owner Should Know

With Dr. Delia Large-Hart