Foreign body in the eye – Dogs

Foreign body in the eye: Identification, immediate care, and when to seek help

A foreign body in a dog’s eye occurs when debris such as plant material, grass seeds, or dust particles become lodged on the eye’s surface (cornea) or the surrounding tissues (conjunctiva). These foreign objects can cause significant irritation and may lead to more severe issues like corneal ulcers if not promptly addressed.​

 

Signs of a foreign body in the eye

Common symptoms indicating the presence of a foreign body in your dog’s eye include:​

• Eye discomfort

  • spasming of the eyelids (blepharospasm), winking, or squinting​
  • protrusion or swelling of the third eyelid​
  • cloudiness over the eye​
  • rubbing or pawing at the eye​

• Ocular discharge

  • Watery, mucus, or pus-like discharge coming from the eye

Immediate first aid steps

1. Flush the eye

   • Gently flush the eye with a sterile eye wash or tap water using a syringe. This action may dislodge the foreign body.​

2. Apply eye lubricant

   • If flushing doesn’t remove the object, apply a generous amount of sterile, water-based eye lubricant or gel, then repeat the flushing process.​

3. Inspect the eye

   • Use a light to carefully inspect the eye, ensuring the foreign body has been removed.​

4. Prevent self-trauma

   • If the eye remains irritated, place an Elizabethan collar on your dog to prevent further rubbing or pawing, which could cause additional injury.​

5. Seek veterinary care

   • Consult a vet as soon as possible for a thorough examination and appropriate treatment.​

Important: Avoid attempting to remove embedded foreign objects yourself, as improper handling can cause further damage to the eye.

When to seek help

Seek immediate veterinary attention if your dog:​

• Continues to show signs of eye discomfort after initial flushing​
• Has a visible foreign object that cannot be removed with gentle flushing​
• Exhibits severe redness, swelling, or discharge​
• Shows signs of vision impairment​

Prompt professional care is essential to prevent potential complications, including infections or permanent vision loss.​

Preventing foreign bodies in the eye

• Environmental management

  • Keep your dog away from areas with tall grasses, dense underbrush, or environments with loose debris that could enter the eyes.​

• Supervision

  • Monitor your dog’s activities, especially in unfamiliar or high-risk environments, to prevent exposure to potential eye hazards.​

• Grooming

  • Regularly trim hair around your dog’s eyes to reduce the risk of foreign bodies getting trapped and causing irritation.