Eye irritation in both eyes while we're on vacation

by Jane M. Hart
(Alexandria Bay, NY, USA)

Our dog came home from daycare last week with a slight pink eye and greenish goo in corner of eye. Next day we went on vacation and 3 days later both eyes are pink and gooey.

Bodhi, a 4 yr old mixed Collie/Spaniel, is blinking more than usual, though generally his usual peppy self. His eyes are not swollen or unusual in size and appear clear and normal except for the "boogers".

He has no known allergies and is not on any medication.

His eating is fine (Blue dog food), and he's playing a lot in the woods (we're in upstate NY on the St. Lawrence River--Canadian border).

We're 6 hours away from our vet and know of no holistic vets in this area, and we won't be home (in the Philadelphia western suburbs) until next Monday. So far I haven't tried any remedies except to wipe the corner of his eyes with damp cloths.

Thanks for any guidance with this.

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Eye irritation in both eyes while we're on vacation

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My Online Vet Response for Eye Irritation in both eyes while we're on vacation
by: Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

Hi Jane,
It sounds from your description that Bodhi has picked up dog conjunctivitis from another dog at the doggy day care. Conjunctivitis can be viral or bacterial, and may or may not be accompanied by respiratory symptoms such as coughing or sneezing.

Usually, it is characterized by the formation of small follicles on the underside, or 'behind' the third eyelid. The third eyelid is visible in the inner corner of a dog or cat's eye. People do not have a third eyelid. Reptiles and birds have a clear third eyelid, also called a nictitating membrane.

The follicles will 'pop' and release the thick mucous discharge that you see appear in the inner corner of his eyes.

Cleaning the eyes with a warm saline solution, using an eye dropper or small plastic bottle with a spout to squirt the saline into his eyes, especially if you are able to squirt it or drip it so that it will go behind the third eyelid is even better. At least twice daily.

The best homeopathic remedy for this is called Euphrasia (from the Eyebright herb). There are homeopathic eye solutions that contain euphrasia that can be put directly into the eyes, 3-4 times daily for 5 days. Or you can buy the homeopathic remedy Euphrasia 6c or 12c potency, and give it to him orally 3-4 times daily for 5 days. And continue to rinse the eyes with saline.

Of course, finding a local holistic veterinarian would be the best! To find a holistic veterinarian in your area click here:
find a holistic veterinarian in your area

Please keep us posted by coming back to this page and clicking the 'click here to add your own comments' link below.

Take care,
Dr. Carol Jean Tillman

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DISCLAIMER: The above should never replace the advice of your local veterinarian, as they have the ability to evaluate your dog in person.

Related Pages:
- Dog Eye Problems,
- Ask a Vet Online Library - Dog Eye Problems Section

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