May is National Eye Examination Month

And this also applies to our pets!

Home eye exams for your pet are very important to check for cloudiness, tearing and inflammation that may obstruct their eyesight. To check your pet's eyes, gently roll down your pet's lower eyelid with your thumb and look at the lining. It should be pink, not red or white.

Want to keep a twinkle in your pet's eyes? Follow these steps!

What to Look For 

According to the ASPCA, here's some symptoms that may indicate you pet has an eye problem:

• Crusty eye gunk
• Cloudiness or change in eye color
• Tearing
• Red or white tear lining
• Closed eyes
• Unequal pupil size
• Blinking more than normal
• Tear stained fur around the eyes

Cleaning Your Pet's Eyes 

Gently wash your pet's eyes with a clean damp cloth or cotton ball and warm water. NEVER use alcohol or peroxide.

To flush the eyes, you can purchase "isotonic buffered saline" or eye drops over the counter made specifically for pet's eyes.

Wipe outward from the corner of the eye, being careful not to touch the eyeball so you don't scratch her cornea. If your pet constantly has a discharge, talk to your vet about solutions. If your pet is long-haired, you may need to remove the locks around his eyes. Use scissors with rounded tips to prevent the hair from poking and scratching his eyes. 

When To See A Vet

The breed of your pet may pre-dispose them to certain eye conditions such as glaucoma or retinal atrophy. Although your pet's eyes will be checked on their annual visits, you can do some preventative maintenance. There are eye disorders your pet can contract, including Ectropion, glaucoma, dry eye, cherry eye, conjunctivitis, and eyelash disorders. Cherry eye and tear staining are not an emergency. However, quick treatment can lessen the severity of any condition.

If your pet is pawing at, rubbing or shows signs of pain or irritation around the eyes, call your veterinarian as soon as possible.  You may even have to go to an pet Ophthalmologist.  Check with your Pets Are Inn office for a recommendation.

                                                          Source:  Bark Buster Dog Training & ASPCA