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

Eyelids
BLEPHAROSPASM (SEVERE SQUINTING)
Severe squinting with spasms of the muscles around the eye is a symptom of a
painful eye. Any painful eye condition can cause squinting. The tightening of
the muscles rolls the eyelids in against the eye. Once rolled in, the rough edges
of the lids and the hairs rub against the eyeball, causing further pain and spasms.
Treatment: Anesthetic drops can be applied to the eyeball to relieve the
pain and break the cycle. The relief is temporary, unless the irritating factor is
identified and removed.
BLEPHARITIS (INFLAMED EYELIDS)
THE EYES • 177
Bacterial blepharitis is a condition in which the eyelids become thick, reddened,
inflamed, and encrusted. Mucuslike pus may adhere to the lids.
Blepharitis in puppies occurs primarily in association with puppy strangles. In
older dogs it can be associated with various skin diseases, including canine
atopy, demodectic mange, autoimmune diseases, and hypothyroidism.
Staphylococcal blepharitis occurs in both puppies and adults. It is identified
by small white pimples on the edges of the eyelids. The pimples rupture
Treatment: Blepharitis is treated with oral and topical antibiotics. To remove
adherent crusts, use a washcloth soaked in warm water as a daily compress over
the eyelids. Three or four times a day, apply a topical ophthalmic ointment or
solution containing neomycin, bacitracin, or polymyxin B. Your veterinarian
may prescribe an ophthalmic ointment that contains corticosteroids.
Blepharitis is difficult to cure. Some dogs require long-term treatment.
Dogs with chronic blepharitis should be checked for hypothyroidism. Any
primary cause will need to be treated.
This dog shows the thickened,
inflamed, and
encrusted eyelids characteristic
of blepharitis.