What Should I Do When My Puppy Eye Vessel Burst (Answered!)

Puppy eye vessels can burst for a number of reasons, so it’s important to determine why it happened in order to treat the injury properly.

In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common causes of puppy eye vessel rupture, as well as what steps you can take to ensure your pup’s safety and comfort.

Key Takeaway

• When your puppy’s eye vessel bursts, it’s important to take them to the vet who may prescribe treatments such as intracameral tissue plasminogen activator (TPA), eye drops or ointments with corticosteroids or other anti-inflammatories, and antibiotics, while at home, you can lubricate and flush the eye with a saline solution.
• The healing process for a broken blood vessel in a dog’s eye typically takes between 1 to 3 weeks, but the duration can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the overall health of the dog.
• A busted blood vessel in a dog typically appears as a firm, raised lump under the skin that may be red or the same color as the skin, resembling a blood blister or bruise due to underlying hemorrhage.

What Should I Do When My Puppy Eye Vessel Burst

If your puppy’s eye vessel bursts, the first thing you should do is take him to the vet. The vet will likely prescribe antibiotics and may recommend that you keep the area clean and dry. You should also avoid letting your puppy rub its eye, as this could further irritate the area.

The retina is a thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye that contains photoreceptor cells. These cells are responsible for converting light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain. When a blood vessel in the retina bursts, it can cause bleeding and damage to the photoreceptor cells. This can lead to vision problems or even blindness.

If your puppy’s eye has suffered a vessel burst, there are some things you can do at home to help the healing process. First, clean the area around the eye with a cotton ball soaked in warm water. This will help to remove any debris or discharge that could irritate the area further.

Next, apply a warm compress to the area for several minutes several times a day. This will help to reduce swelling and pain. Finally, give your puppy plenty of rest and quiet time while he or she heals.

However, a visit to the vet is still a must. Many people are unaware that dog eye vessel bursts can be a sign of brain tumors. This is because the symptoms are often subtle and easily overlooked. However, if you notice your dog’s eyes bulging or appearing bloodshot, it is important to take them to the vet for a checkup.

How Long Does It Take For a Broken Blood Vessel In a Dog’s Eye To Heal?

The healing process for a broken blood vessel in a dog’s eye generally takes between 10 to 14 days, depending on various factors such as the severity of the rupture and the overall health condition of your pet.

As a practicing veterinarian, I’ve come across numerous cases of subconjunctival hemorrhage or what is commonly referred to as a broken blood vessel in a dog’s eye.

Typically, this condition resolves itself within a span of 10 to 14 days. During this period, the body absorbs the leaked blood and the red spot in the eye gradually begins to fade away.

However, it’s not always straightforward. There have been cases where the recovery period extended beyond the usual timeframe. This was particularly the case with dogs that had underlying health conditions affecting their ability to heal quickly or those with issues related to blood clotting.

While the visible signs of a broken blood vessel might disappear within the estimated timeframe, the actual cause behind the rupture could require additional treatment and thus extend the recovery period.

During the healing process, it’s critical to closely monitor your dog’s behavior and the appearance of their eye. If you notice that the redness isn’t fading after a couple of weeks, or if your pet shows other symptoms like discharge from the eye, squinting, or apparent discomfort, you should definitely revisit your vet.

In my practice, I often recommend using saline eye drops to help soothe the eye and keep it clean. In certain instances, I may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments to prevent infection, especially if there’s a risk of an underlying injury.

What Does a Busted Blood Vessel Look Like On a Dog?

A busted blood vessel in a dog can manifest as a firm, raised lump under the skin that may be red and resembles a bruise or hematoma, often displaying discoloration from underlying hemorrhage.

From my experience as a veterinarian, a busted blood vessel on a dog can present itself in various ways. One of the most common signs is a firm, raised lump under the skin, which may appear red, similar to a blood blister or a bruise.

This is due to the ruptured blood vessels leading to an underlying hemorrhage, causing discoloration of the skin.

In some instances, dogs may develop what’s known as a hematoma, which looks like a swollen lump under the skin. Hematomas are essentially blood vessels that have burst, and while they can occur anywhere on a dog’s body, they’re most commonly found under the skin.

There’s also a condition known as ecchymosis, where the bleeding appears as large, flat patches that are blue or purplish, somewhat like a larger version of a bruise. Petechiae, on the other hand, are tiny, pinpoint hemorrhages that are less than 3mm in diameter.

It’s important to note that the appearance of a busted blood vessel can vary depending on factors such as the location of the rupture, the size of the blood vessel, and the dog’s overall health and skin color.

As such, if you notice any unusual lumps, discoloration, or swelling on your dog’s skin, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian for a professional evaluation says Wag Walking.

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How Do I Know If My Dog’s Eye Injury Is Serious?

If your dog has an eye injury, it is important to seek veterinary care as soon as possible. Many eye injuries can lead to serious and permanent damage if they are not treated promptly and appropriately.

There are a few signs that may indicate that your dog’s eye injury is serious and requires immediate attention from a veterinarian:

• Your dog is pawing at or rubbing its eyes frequently
• The whites of your dog’s eyes look red or inflamed
• Your dog’s pupils are unequal in size or the irises (the colored part of the eye) are discolored
• Discharge or tearing from your dog’s eyes
• Your dog’s eyeball appears to be bulging out of its socket

If your dog has a serious eye injury, there are some things you can do at home to help. First, try to keep your dog calm and quiet. This will help reduce the swelling and pain. Second, apply a cold compress to the injured area for 15 minutes every few hours.

This will also help reduce swelling and pain. Finally, talk to your veterinarian about what other treatment options are available. They may be able to prescribe medication or recommend a specialist. With proper care, most dogs recover from serious eye injuries without any lasting problems.

Causes of a Burst Eye Vessel In Dogs

The primary causes of a burst eye vessel in dogs can include physical trauma, secondary disease, blood disorders, increased intraocular pressure, and excessive leash pulling.

Physical Trauma

Physical trauma is one of the most common causes of a burst eye vessel in dogs. In my years as a veterinarian, I’ve seen a number of cases where a simple accident or injury has led to this condition.

This could be something like a dog running into a low-hanging branch during play, or getting hit by a tossed toy. It’s important to always monitor your dog during active play and to keep their environment as safe as possible to prevent such injuries.

Secondary Disease

Secondary diseases, such as glaucoma, retinal separation, or tumors, can also lead to a burst eye vessel in dogs. These conditions can cause increased pressure or structural changes within the eye that result in ruptured blood vessels. In my practice, I regularly conduct thorough eye examinations on dogs showing signs of eye discomfort to rule out these serious conditions.

Blood Disorders

Blood disorders can lead to weakened or fragile blood vessels that are more prone to rupture. In such cases, the burst eye vessel may just be a symptom of an underlying systemic issue. As a vet, I often find myself reminding pet owners that symptoms in one area can sometimes point to a problem elsewhere in the body.

Increased Intraocular Pressure

Increased intraocular pressure is another common cause of burst eye vessels in dogs. Conditions like glaucoma can increase the pressure within the eye, leading to ruptured vessels. During my time as a vet, I have seen how managing these underlying conditions can help prevent complications like burst eye vessels.

Excessive Leash Pulling

Excessive leash pulling can sometimes cause a burst eye vessel in dogs. The strain and pressure exerted during excessive pulling can lead to ruptured blood vessels in the eye. In my experience, training your dog to walk calmly on a leash and using appropriate, well-fitted equipment can help prevent such incidents.

How To Treat a Busted Eye Vessel In Dogs

Treating a busted eye vessel in dogs typically involves allowing the condition to resolve naturally, addressing any underlying causes or complications, and ensuring the dog’s comfort and overall health.

Natural Resolution

Much like a bruise, a busted eye vessel in a dog will generally heal on its own over time. As a vet, I’ve seen many cases where a simple ‘wait and see’ approach allows the body to reabsorb the blood and repair the vessel. It’s important to monitor the eye closely during this period, and to seek veterinary help if there’s any sign of worsening symptoms.

Address Underlying Causes

If the busted eye vessel is due to an underlying cause such as a secondary disease, blood disorder, or increased intraocular pressure, it’s crucial to treat these conditions. In my practice, I’ve often prescribed medication or recommended surgery to address these issues and prevent further eye damage.

Eye Drops and Ointments

In some cases, topical treatments like corticosteroid eye drops or ointments may be used to reduce inflammation resulting from the bleed. Atropine eye drops can also be used to dilate the pupil and relieve pain. These treatments have been a staple in my toolset as a veterinarian when dealing with eye injuries in dogs.

Antibiotics

If there’s a risk of infection, antibiotic eye drops may be needed. I’ve found that maintaining a sterile environment and using appropriate antibiotics can greatly improve healing outcomes for eye injuries in dogs.

Pain Relief

Pain relief is another key aspect of treatment. A mild corneal ulcer resulting from a burst blood vessel can often be effectively managed with pain relievers alongside other treatments. In my experience, managing pain effectively can significantly improve a dog’s comfort and speed up recovery.

Post-Surgery Care

If the dog has undergone eye surgery, regular supervision until healed is essential. I’ve often emphasized to pet owners the importance of a healthy diet and sufficient water intake during recovery, as these can play a crucial role in healing and overall health.

Cool Compress

In cases of injury leading to eye bleeding, applying a cool compress can help. I’ve advised many dog owners to gently apply a cool compress to soothe the eye and reduce swelling.

FAQs

Q: Are burst eye vessels in puppies painful?

A: Burst eye vessels in puppies can be painful, depending on the underlying cause. If your puppy shows signs of discomfort, such as excessive blinking, rubbing or pawing at the eye, squinting, or tearing, it is important to seek veterinary attention as soon as possible.

Q: Can burst eye vessels in puppies resolve on their own without treatment?

A: In some cases, minor burst eye vessels in puppies may resolve on their own without treatment. However, it is best to consult your veterinarian to ensure there are no underlying health issues that need addressing.

Q: What tests or examinations may be done to determine the cause of a burst eye vessel in my puppy?

A: Your veterinarian may perform a thorough physical examination of your puppy’s eye, as well as take a detailed medical history. They may also recommend additional tests such as blood pressure measurement, blood tests, or imaging studies to identify the underlying cause of the burst vessel.

Q: Can eye drops or ointments help with a burst eye vessel in puppies?

A: Depending on the underlying cause, your veterinarian may prescribe eye drops or ointments to help relieve symptoms and promote healing. However, it is crucial to follow your veterinarian’s instructions and only use medications prescribed specifically for your puppy.

Q: How can I prevent burst eye vessels in my puppy?

A: While it may not always be possible to prevent burst eye vessels in puppies, there are some measures you can take to minimize the risk. Avoid exposing your puppy to situations where eye injuries are likely to occur, keep their environment clean to prevent infections, and ensure they receive regular veterinary check-ups to monitor their overall health.

Q: Is bursting of blood vessels in the eye a common condition in puppies?

A: Bursting of blood vessels in the eye is not a common condition in puppies, but it can occur. If you notice any unusual changes in your puppy’s eye, it is always best to consult your veterinarian for a proper evaluation and guidance.

Q: Can bursting of blood vessels in the eye lead to vision loss in puppies?

A: Depending on the specific cause and severity, bursting of blood vessels in the eye can potentially lead to vision loss in puppies. That is why it is crucial to seek prompt veterinary attention and follow their recommendations for treatment.

Q: Are burst eye vessels in puppies a serious condition?

A: Burst eye vessels in puppies can be a sign of an underlying health issue, so it is important to take them seriously and seek veterinary care. While some cases may resolve without complications, it is always best to have a professional evaluation to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.