When a dog gets a rash, it is a cause for concern, especially when the rash is around the eye. Most rashes are itchy and uncomfortable, and a dog's--or anyone's--first instinct is to scratch it. While giving into that desire may temporarily relieve your dog's discomfort, it may also cause problems, including eye scratches and ulcers. Fortunately, there are ways to treat the rash near your dog's eye, while also being careful to prevent ocular damage.
Things You'll Need
- Veterinarian-prescribed medication
- Surgical gloves
- Meat, cheese or soft treat
- Soap and water
- Hydrogen peroxide
- Cotton ball or square
- Elizabethan collar
Instructions
Take your dog to the veterinarian. Many different conditions can cause rashes; therefore, the only way to know how to treat the rash is to determine what is causing it.
Apply any prescribed creams or ointments to the affected area by placing a small amount of medication on your finger and rubbing it in. Consider wearing surgical gloves when touching the medication, especially if it contains steroids. Follow the dosage instructions that are given by the veterinarian.
Hide pills or tablets in a treat or piece of cheese or meat to administer any pills prescribed by your veterinarian to treat the rash. You can also place the medication directly inside the dog's mouth by placing the pill between the thumb and index finger of your dominant hand. Open your pooch's mouth with your non-dominant hand by applying upward pressure to the upper jaw and downward pressure to the lower jaw with the dominant hand. Stick the pill as far back in the dog's mouth as it will go and quickly close the jaws. Blow on the dog's nose once and rub its throat to encourage it to swallow.
Clean the rash with what your veterinarian prescribes--this may include soap and water or hydrogen peroxide. Do so with a large cotton ball or square, and attempt to squeeze out any excess liquid as it may drain out of the cotton and into the eye. Mineral oil placed in the eye can act as a barrier of protection; however, consult with your vet before using it.
Place an Elizabethan collar on your dog until the rash resolves. Most hard and soft collars will do the trick. Try to obtain a clear collar, as it will make seeing a lot easier for your dog.
Return to your veterinarian in about ten days for a follow-up exam. This will allow the doctor to check that the medication is working and that there is no irritation to the eye.