Giving eye medication to a dog can feel daunting, particularly if they’re used to having their face handled. Taking things slowly and staying calm can make a big difference. If possible, having a second person to help hold and reassure your pet can make the process safer and less stressful for everyone.
Always follow your vet’s instructions on how often to apply eye treatment, as this will depend on the cause of the eye problem and the type of medication prescribed.
Please don’t be tempted to administer eye medication previously prescribed without consulting with your vet as there are lots of eye conditions and applying the wrong drops can have serious consequences.
Before you begin, give your pet a chance to get used to the medication bottle or tube. This can help reduce anxiety and make treatment easier.
You can:
It’s usually the unfamiliar smell or handling that worries pets, so a little preparation can go a long way.
Once your pet is settled and comfortable:
Dogs and cats have strong eyelid muscles, so you may need to be calm but confident when holding the eyelids open.
If your pet has been prescribed an eye ointment:
Once the medication has been given, reward your pet with praise, a treat or a favourite activity. This helps build a positive routine and can make future treatments much easier.
If you’re finding it difficult to give eye medication, or if your pet becomes very stressed, please contact your vet or vet nurse for advice or a demonstration.
