Why is My Dog’s Eye Bloodshot?

If you’ve noticed your dog’s eye looking red or bloodshot, it’s natural to feel concerned. A bloodshot eye could point to several potential issues, ranging from minor irritations to more serious conditions that require veterinary attention. Understanding the causes behind your dog’s eye redness can help you determine when it’s time to seek veterinary care. At Town & Country Veterinary Clinic in Marinette, WI, we’re here to help. Call us at (715) 735-9511 for more information or to make an appointment if you notice your dog’s eye is bloodshot.

Common Causes of a Bloodshot Eye in Dogs

Several things can cause a dog’s eye to look bloodshot. One of the most common reasons is irritation. Like people, dogs can get debris or dust in their eyes, which may cause redness and discomfort. Allergies can also lead to a similar reaction, especially if your dog spends a lot of time outside or around things like pollen or grass.

In some cases, the redness may be due to more serious conditions, such as conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. This condition involves inflammation of the lining of the eye and often requires treatment to prevent it from worsening. Dry eye, an issue where your dog doesn’t produce enough tears, can also cause a bloodshot appearance, making the eye look irritated and red.

A more severe cause of a bloodshot eye could be an eye injury. Trauma to the eye from play, scratching, or even a foreign object can damage the delicate tissues and lead to redness or swelling. Injuries like these should be looked at by a veterinarian to ensure no lasting damage occurs.

Could It Be Glaucoma?

Glaucoma is a serious condition that affects the pressure within the eye, leading to potential vision loss if not treated quickly. One of the early signs of glaucoma is a bloodshot eye, often accompanied by squinting or noticeable discomfort. Glaucoma is more common in certain dog breeds, like Poodles, Basset Hounds, and Cocker Spaniels, but it can occur in any dog.

If you suspect that your dog might have glaucoma, it’s important to get them to the vet as soon as possible. Glaucoma can progress rapidly and cause permanent damage to your dog’s vision. While there are treatments available, catching the condition early makes a significant difference in the outcome.

Infections and Their Symptoms

Eye infections in dogs can also lead to redness or a bloodshot appearance. Bacterial or viral infections, such as conjunctivitis, are fairly common and can cause the eye to look inflamed. Infections are often accompanied by other signs, like discharge from the eye or your dog rubbing or pawing at their face.

Another type of infection that might cause a bloodshot eye is uveitis, which affects the inside of the eye and causes inflammation. Uveitis is a serious condition and can be painful for your dog. This condition is sometimes linked to other health issues, such as infections or immune system problems, so getting a proper diagnosis from your veterinarian is essential.

Could Your Dog Have Dry Eye?

Dry eye, also known as keratoconjunctivitis sicca, occurs when a dog’s eyes don’t produce enough tears to keep them moist and healthy. Tears are essential for removing debris and protecting the eye from irritation. Without enough tears, the eyes can become dry, leading to redness, inflammation, and a bloodshot appearance.

Certain dog breeds are more prone to dry eye, including Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels, and Shih Tzus. If your dog has dry eye, you might notice them blinking a lot or squinting in addition to the redness. Treatment for dry eye usually involves medication to help increase tear production or provide artificial tears to keep the eyes lubricated.

Allergies: A Common Trigger

Just like people, dogs can suffer from allergies, and one of the symptoms can be bloodshot eyes. Allergies can be caused by various factors, such as pollen, dust, or even certain foods. If your dog has seasonal allergies, you might notice their eyes becoming red and irritated during certain times of the year. Other signs of allergies include sneezing, itching, or watery eyes.

If you think allergies might be the reason behind your dog’s bloodshot eye, a visit to the vet can help determine the cause. In some cases, allergy medications can reduce symptoms and make your dog more comfortable.

Eye Injuries and How They Affect the Eye

Dogs are active animals, and it’s easy for them to accidentally injure their eyes. An eye injury could happen during rough play, a fight with another animal, or even when they run through tall grass or bushes. When an injury occurs, the blood vessels in the eye can break, causing redness and sometimes swelling.

If your dog has an eye injury, you may notice them squinting, keeping the eye closed, or rubbing their face against furniture or the ground. These signs are often a clear indication that something is wrong. While some minor injuries might heal on their own, it’s always best to have your veterinarian assess the situation to prevent complications.

When to See a Veterinarian

If your dog’s eye is bloodshot and you’re unsure of the cause, it’s best to reach out to your vet. Redness that doesn’t improve within a day or two, or is accompanied by other symptoms like squinting, discharge, or pawing at the face, should be addressed promptly.

Eye issues in dogs can worsen quickly, and certain conditions, like glaucoma, require immediate attention to prevent lasting damage. At Town & Country Veterinary Clinic, we can help diagnose the cause of your dog’s bloodshot eye and provide appropriate treatment to relieve their discomfort.

How Town & Country Veterinary Clinic Can Help

We understand how concerning it can be to notice changes in your dog’s eyes. Our team is equipped to handle a wide range of eye conditions, from minor irritations to more serious issues like infections or glaucoma. If your dog’s eye looks bloodshot or you’re noticing any other unusual symptoms, we recommend scheduling an appointment.

Our goal is to provide your pet with the best care possible, ensuring they are comfortable and healthy. Eye conditions can range from mild to severe, so having a veterinary professional examine your dog is the best way to ensure proper care and treatment.

Call us at (715) 735-9511 today if you’re concerned about your dog’s eye health or would like more information about how we can assist with your dog’s eye condition.