Dog Scratched Eye: What to Do at Home and When See a Vet

A dog scratch to the eye can be a serious injury. The sharp claws of a dog can easily scratch the cornea, the clear outer layer of the eye. Corneal scratches can be very painful and can lead to vision problems.

If your dog has scratched your eye, it is important to take action immediately. Here are some things you can do at home to help treat the injury:

* Rinse your eye with cool water. This will help to remove any dirt or debris from the eye and reduce the risk of infection.

* Apply a cold compress to your eye. This will help to reduce pain and swelling.

* Take over-the-counter pain medication. This can help to relieve pain and discomfort.

* Avoid wearing contact lenses. Contact lenses can irritate the eye and make the injury worse.

When to See a Vet

You should see a vet if:

* The pain in your eye is severe.

* Your vision is blurred or distorted.

* You have any other symptoms of an eye infection, such as redness, discharge, or swelling.

The vet will examine your eye and determine the best course of treatment. Treatment for a dog scratch to the eye may include:

* Antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection.

* Pain medication.

* Surgery to repair a corneal scratch.

Preventing Dog Scratches to the Eye

The best way to prevent dog scratches to the eye is to keep your dog's nails trimmed. You should also avoid letting your dog jump up on you or put its paws on your face. If your dog does scratch your eye, it is important to take action immediately to prevent serious injury.