We’ve all been there – you’re playing with your energetic pup, giving them loving scratches, when suddenly they give you a big slobbery lick right in the eye! It’s a common occurrence for dog owners, but should you be concerned if your dog’s saliva gets in your eye?
While our furry friends shower us with harmless kisses and licks on a daily basis, their saliva can sometimes irritate our eyes and cause discomfort, redness, and even infections. Dog saliva can contain bacteria, viruses, parasites, and allergens that may cause conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye. Understanding the risks and symptoms can help dog owners identify when a simple eye irritation has become something more serious.
In this article, we’ll cover the causes, risks, first aid recommendations, and treatments for eye irritation or infection from your dog licking your eye. We’ll also provide tips on prevention and when it’s time to call your doctor or veterinarian. If your pup’s slobbery kisses have left your peepers pink and puffy, read on to learn more!
Causes
One of the main causes of eye irritation or infection from a dog licking the eye is bacteria and viruses that may be present on the dog’s tongue. Some common bacteria found in dog saliva that can cause problems include Capnocytophaga, Pasteurella, Streptococcus, Staphylococcus, and Neisseria.
Capnocytophaga bacteria are normally found in the mouths of dogs, cats, and humans. However, they can sometimes lead to opportunistic eye infections if introduced directly to the eye from licking. According to the CDC, Capnocytophaga bacteria cause the majority of infections transmitted from dog and cat bites or scratches. Other bacteria like Pasteurella can also be spread through licking.
In addition to bacteria, dogs may potentially carry viruses like rabies or herpes that could be transmitted by licking. However, this is less common than bacterial infections. Overall, the main cause of eye issues after a dog lick is bacteria that is normally present in their mouths.
Risks
There are some risks associated with a dog licking your eye. The main risks are conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers.
Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is inflammation of the conjunctiva which is the thin transparent layer of tissue that lines the inner surface of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball. Conjunctivitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection, allergies, or irritation from foreign substances like dog saliva. Symptoms include redness, itching, burning, and discharge coming from the eyes. Conjunctivitis is very contagious and can spread from one eye to another or from person to person. It usually resolves on its own within a week or two but may require antibiotic eye drops or ointments in some cases [1].
Corneal ulcers are open sores on the cornea, which is the clear dome-shaped window at the front of the eye. They can be caused by irritation, infection, or trauma from a foreign object like a dog’s tongue. Symptoms include eye pain, tearing, redness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and discharge. Corneal ulcers are serious and can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated. Treatment involves antibiotic eye drops or ointment and using protective eye patches or glasses. Severe ulcers may require surgery [2].
When to Seek Help
If you experience severe eye pain, vision issues, or redness after your dog licks your eye, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Dog saliva contains bacteria that can cause infections in humans. While it’s rare, some of the potential infections are quite serious, such as Capnocytophaga. Seeking prompt medical care helps prevent complications and permanent eye damage.
According to experts quoted in this Milwaukee Journal Sentinel article, potential symptoms that warrant an urgent doctor visit include:
- Severe eye pain or light sensitivity
- Vision changes, blurriness, or loss of vision
- Redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye
- Headaches or stiff neck
While it’s rare, some bacterial infections from dog licks can progress quickly. Seeking same-day medical care provides the best chance for a full recovery and prevents the infection from potentially spreading. Inform your doctor that a dog licked your eye so they can prescribe appropriate antibiotics if needed.
First Aid
If your dog licks your eye, the first step is to immediately flush the eye with water or a saline solution to help wash away germs and prevent infection. Use an eyewash cup or a clean bottle to gently rinse the eye. Tilt your head to the side, pull your eyelids open with your fingers, and pour water over your eyeball for at least 5 minutes. Make sure to flush under the eyelids as well. You can use sterile saline wound wash or contact lens solution if available. Plain tap water is also effective for rinsing the eye.
According to a Quora post, flushing the eye right away with water or saline is recommended if a dog licks your eye to help remove bacteria and prevent infection (https://www.quora.com/What-should-I-do-if-my-dog-accidentally-licked-my-eyes). After rinsing, you may want to apply a cold compress to relieve pain and swelling.
Treatment
If a bacterial infection occurs after your dog licks your eye, your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments. Common antibiotics used include fluoroquinolones like ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin. These are broad-spectrum antibiotics that can treat a wide range of bacteria. Your doctor may also prescribe combination antibiotic/steroid eye drops to reduce inflammation and discomfort. It’s important to use the antibiotics as directed and finish the entire course, even if your symptoms improve quickly. Not completing the full course can lead to recurring or resistant infections.
For viral eye infections that may occur after a dog licks your eye, there are few treatment options. Antibiotics do not work on viruses. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications like trifluridine or ganciclovir eye drops, especially for serious viral infections. However, these are mostly aimed at symptom relief. The infection often needs to run its course, so treatment focuses on managing pain and inflammation until it resolves. Artificial tear eye drops can help soothe eye irritation and discomfort. Avoiding rubbing the infected eye can also promote healing.
In most cases, dog lick eye infections resolve with proper eye hygiene and either antibiotic or supportive treatment. Severe infections may require hospitalization for specialized care and close monitoring. Follow your doctor’s treatment plan carefully, and contact them if your symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days. Prompt and appropriate treatment can help prevent permanent vision damage from eye infections caused by a dog lick.
Prevention
To prevent your dog from licking your eyes, it’s important to train them not to lick your face. Here are some tips:
Keep your face away when interacting with your dog. Don’t get too close to their face, which can prompt licking. Give your dog affection by petting their head or back instead.
Train a “no licking” command. When your dog tries to lick your face, say “no” or “no licking” in a firm tone and gently block their head with your hand. Reward them with treats and praise when they stop trying to lick you.
Distract your dog when they go to lick you by redirecting their attention to a toy or treat. This helps shift their focus away from licking.
If your dog is overly persistent about licking, use a bitter anti-lick spray on your hands and face. The unpleasant taste deters licking. Spray a small amount periodically.
With consistent training, your dog will learn that licking your face and eyes is unacceptable behavior. Be patient and reward good behavior.
Risk Factors
Certain dog breeds and ages are more likely to exhibit excessive licking behavior that could lead to eye irritation or infection. According to the American Kennel Club, brachycephalic (short-nosed) breeds like Boxers, Bulldogs, and Pugs tend to lick more often [1]. Their shortened nasal passages make breathing more difficult, causing them to exhibit mouth breathing and frequent licking. Puppies and young dogs may also lick frequently as they explore the world through taste and smell.
Owners should be especially cautious about eye licking with brachycephalic breeds and young dogs under 1 year old. Proper training and providing alternative activities like chew toys can help curb excessive licking behavior.
Prognosis
The prognosis for eye irritation or infection from a dog licking the eye is usually good with prompt treatment. Most cases resolve within a few days with proper first aid and medical care if needed. Serious damage or vision loss is rare if the eye is flushed and medication is used as directed. However, any eye injury can potentially cause permanent issues, so it’s important to watch for worsening symptoms and follow up with an ophthalmologist if problems persist.
With quick action to cleanse the eye and treat any resulting infection or inflammation, full recovery and restoration of normal vision is the expected outcome (source 1). Still, any trauma to the eye is concerning and requires monitoring to ensure proper healing. Overall, the prognosis following a dog’s tongue contacting the eye directly is reassuring, especially if caught early before severe infection sets in. But any eye irritation or injury merits caution and examination by an eye doctor.
When to See a Vet
If your dog’s saliva entered your eye, it’s important to monitor for signs of infection or vision issues. Contact your vet right away if you notice any of the following symptoms:
- Eye pain, irritation, or discomfort
- Redness in the affected eye
- Excessive tearing or discharge from the eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision or changes in vision
- The eyelid appears swollen
- Pus draining from the eye
Infections can develop quickly and lead to serious complications if left untreated. Your vet will examine your eye to determine if antibiotics or other medication are needed. They can also check for corneal scratches or other damage caused by your dog’s tongue.
Even if symptoms seem minor at first, it’s wise to have your eye evaluated. Your vet can make sure everything is healing properly and no lasting issues are developing that could impact your vision. Don’t take chances with your eyesight – contact your vet promptly if your eye was licked by a dog.
