Chances are that your dog likes having eye ointment applied as much as you would. Having said that, there are ways to make it easier. I like to either be at the side or behind my dog when I apply ointment. This makes it less like she is about to be poked in the eye. I try to be very soothing and patient. I also give treats before and after applying the ointment. By giving the treat before you tend to avoid the game of hide and seek owners often describe. When they reach for the ointment their dog heads for the hills. Make the treatment a positive experience and it will be easier on both of you!

Applying Eye Ointments to Dogs

Author: Ernest Ward, DVM

The proper administration of eye medications is essential for your pet's prompt recovery. Make sure that you wash your hands both before and after administering the medication to avoid contamination and/or prevent the spread of infection.

If your dog's eye is painful, you may need to have someone assist you with restraint or you may need to place a muzzle on your dog. Before you start, make sure that you have read the label and understand the instructions. Hold the ointment tube using your thumb and index finger. You may want to rest this hand on the top of the dog's head to help stabilize it.

With your other hand, use your thumb to pull down the lower eyelid. Place your remaining fingers under the dog's jaw to support the head.

Squeeze the ointment onto the inside edge of the lower lid. Make sure you DO NOT touch the eye's surface with the tube. Your veterinarian will have told you the amount of ointment to apply.

The warmth of the eyeball should melt the ointment, helping it to spread. The dog will blink, further spreading the medication over the surface of the eye. It is normal to see the ointment accumulate in the corners of the eye after administration.

Make sure you give your dog plenty of praise throughout the procedure and offer a treat after applying the ointment.

Your dog's eye ointment is critical to the health and well being of his eyes. If you have any questions or difficulty with the ointment please give us a call. We are happy to do it for you or with you until you are more comfortable. We are here to help.