Dog Owner's Home Veterinary Handbook.pdf - Mr. Walnuts

Only use drops and ointments that are
specifically labeled for ophthalmic use. Be
sure to check the expiration date on
the product’s label. Note that prolonged
administration of antibiotics
in the eye may lead to resistant infections.
Your veterinarian may recommend
flushing or cleaning the eye
with artificial tears before putting in a
new dose of medication.
The Eyeball
EYE OUT OF ITS SOCKET
This is an emergency. Dislocation of one or both eyeballs is a common problem
in dogs with large, bulging eyes such as Boston Terriers, Pugs, Pekingese,
Maltese, and some spaniels. It is generally caused by dog bites and other types
of trauma. Struggling with these dogs while attempting to hold and restrain
them for any reason can cause the eye to bulge out so far that the eyelids snap
shut behind the eyeball. This prevents the eyeball from returning to its socket
and may pull on and damage the optic nerve
Treatment: A dislocated eyeball is an extremely serious condition that
may cause loss of vision. Shortly after the eye dislocates, swelling behind the
eye makes it extremely difficult to return the eyeball to its normal position.
Proceed at once to the nearest veterinary hospital. Carry the dog, if possible.
Cover the eye with a wet cloth. Prevent the dog from pawing at the eye.
If it appears that veterinary help will not be available within 30 minutes, consider
attempting to reposition the eyeball yourself. This requires at least two people:
one to restrain and hold the dog and the other to reposition the eye. Lubricate
the surface of the eye with K-Y or petroleum jelly and lift the eyelids out and over
the eyeball, while maintaining gentle inward pressure on the globe with a wad of
moist cotton. If you’re not successful, make no further attempt. Seek professional
assistance. Even if you can replace the eyeball, you should visit your veterinarian
for follow-up care, because the delicate tissues may be damaged.
After the eye has been replaced, your veterinarian may suggest a surgical
procedure to prevent a recurrence.
OTHER CAUSES OF A BULGING EYE
THE EYES • 175
An eye out of its socket is an emergency.
Abscesses, hematomas, and tumors in the retrobulbar space behind the eye can
push the globe forward and cause bulging.