In this article, I'll provide a few guidelines that you can use to ensure your canine's eyes are in good health.
Take A Close Look Regularly
Inspect your dog's eyes at least once every few days. That way, you can identify a problem quickly and seek treatment, if necessary. Under normal circumstances, the pupil will be moist without clouding. However, it's difficult to tell without lifting his top eyelid. He may not enjoy the experience, but he'll grow accustomed to it if you make the inspection a regular occurrence.
Possible Warning Signs
Excess mucus might imply an infection. The most common type is called conjunctivitis and manifests with noticeable redness and a greenish excretion. Also, look for tearing in the pupils as well as redness in the linings of both of his eyelids. If you see an inflamed area or you notice that your dog is squinting, look around his eyes for errant hairs. They may be touching the cornea and causing a problem.
If you notice a subtle haziness and your pooch is older, the haze may be caused by a condition called nuclear sclerosis. It is directly related to age and happens when the lens changes in density. It's not serious. That said, if you have never noticed the cloudiness, consider asking your veterinarian to confirm the issue is not caused by cataracts.
How To Prevent Problems
Besides performing routine inspections, there are several steps you can take to prevent your canine from experiencing ocular problems. Keep his coat well-groomed so hairs won't touch his corneas. Also, considering trimming the hairs that rest near his eyes since they can easily cause irritation. A pair of blunt-nosed scissors should suffice.
If you notice a buildup of mucus, clean it off. Otherwise, bacteria can develop leading to an infection. Pet supply stores will normally sell wipes that are designed to clear away the discharge. It's worth noting that tear stains don't usually present a problem in the same way that mucus can. That said, they can be unsightly if left unchecked. You can buy a tear stain remover at most pet supply stores.
The most important factor when it comes to your dog's eyes is to check them regularly and take preventative steps to avoid problems. If you notice any cause for concern, contact your veterinarian immediately. Doing so can literally save your dog's vision.
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