Ask Dr Claire
I think my dog has conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is really just a symptom and can be the result of many underlying causes. In this case, we really need to find the cause of the conjunctivitis so that we can treat your dog’s problem (not just the symptom). This will help us reach the best treatment plan too.
Some of the underlying causes of conjunctivitis might be:
- Infectious conjunctivitis (bacterial or viral)
- Dry eye: due to a lack of tear production
- Corneal ulceration
- Foreign body in the eye such as a grass seed
- An actual problem within the eye: uveitis, glaucoma, problem with the lens and more.
In the interim you can gently bathe the eye with saline (you can buy this or make this with 1/2 teaspoon salt dissolved in 1 cup of boiling water, then COOLED before use).
If she is uncomfortable and is unwilling to open her eye, I would advise you get it checked out but your local bricks and mortar vet ASAP today.
If you’d like to chat in person, you can get a vet on a live video call or start a chat to discuss in more detail now.
We’re here to help!
Chat soon,
Dr Claire