Constant mucous discharge from the eyes of a dog, as well as in humans, is the norm: this is a protective reaction to dust and small debris getting on the mucous membrane of the eye. Together with these secretions, foreign bodies are removed from the eyes. But the appearance of purulent discharge of a yellowish or greenish color can be a sign of a serious illness and a reason for an immediate visit to the veterinarian.
Causes of purulent discharge from a dog's eyes
The main causes of purulent discharge include:
- helminthic invasion;
- viral diseases;
- streptococcal or staphylococcal infection;
- acute conjunctivitis;
- eye trauma with the addition of infection.
This discharge appears in diseases of the cornea and eyelids, and is also one of the symptoms of such a dangerous disease as the plague. Eye injuries that provoke the appearance of purulent discharge are also very insidious, since the infection may not appear immediately, but only after a few weeks. If it is not detected in a timely manner and treatment is not started, the animal may lose sight or even lose an eye.
Do not treat the animal yourself. How serious the disease is and how to treat it can only be determined by a specialist.
As soon as you notice that the eyes have begun to fester and such discharge has appeared, especially if they are accompanied by profuse lacrimation and restless behavior of the dog, you should immediately contact your veterinarian. Diagnosis is made on the basis of tests and examination, respectively, and treatment should be prescribed on an individual basis. An accurate diagnosis and, accordingly, the correct treatment can be made only after a bacterial analysis and sowing of purulent discharge on nutrient media have been carried out.
First aid to a dog with the appearance of purulent discharge
Before the veterinarian prescribes a complex of treatment for your pet and prescribes anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial drugs, you can alleviate the condition of the animal by providing him with first aid. Make a decoction of chamomile, St. John's wort, or calendula. You can also use a little standing, "dormant" black tea or a solution of furacilin, diluting one tablet in a glass of warm boiled water.
Your veterinary home medicine cabinet should also contain antibiotic-based antibacterial ointments: erythromycin, olettrin.
Use a cotton pad for rinsing, a new one for each eye. Moisten it liberally in the infusion and gently slide the disc along the dog's lower eyelid from the outer corner of the eye to the inner corner. After rinsing, blot the eye with a soft tissue and put 1% tetracycline ointment under the lower eyelid. Then lightly massage the closed eyelid with your finger to evenly distribute the ointment underneath. Sit a little with the dog, not letting her rub her eyes with her paws, calm her down and stroke her so that she does not get nervous after such a stressful procedure.
