Treating Red Eye In Dog

by Joe
(New York, NY)

Reader Question: Will Red Eye In Canines Heal On Its Own?

My dog has a small spot in the color part of the eye that looks like blood. And out from it looks a little red on the white part by it. Will it heal on its own? As I cannot afford to take to a vet at this moment.

Veterinarian Answers Reader Question Regarding Red Eye In Dog

Hi,

I would need some more information from you before I could hazard a guess as to whether or not the abnormality you describe is potentially serious, but here are a couple of general guidelines:

• If your dog’s eye is obviously painful, itchy, or uncomfortable, do not wait to bring him in to see a veterinarian. Eye problems can quickly go from bad to worse and delaying would only make treatment more expensive and potentially less effective in the long run.

• If your dog seems completely normal in all other regards, watch the spot closely. If it growing or appears to be worsening in any way, get him in to see the doctor ASAP. If however, it is shrinking or otherwise resolving on its own, or doesn't appear to change in any way, bring it to your vet’s attention at your next, regularly scheduled appointment. Continue to monitor it closely in the meantime.

Good luck,

Jennifer Coates, DVM