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Overview
To remove hair from a dog's eye, use a damp cloth to gently wipe the eye area, flush the eye with warm water or saline solution if the hair is loose, and use a blunt-tipped scissor or a professional groomer to carefully trim obstructive hair. If the hair is stuck, deeply embedded, or if your dog is showing signs of pain, redness, or persistent irritation, contact your veterinarian or an emergency vet immediately.
For Hair Stuck in the Eye
- Observe the eye: Check if the hair is visible on the surface of the eye.
- Flush the eye: Gently hold the eye open and flush it with warm (not hot) water or a veterinary saline solution.
- Use a cloth: You can also try to wipe the hair away with a damp, soft cloth or cotton swab, being careful not to poke the eye.
- Seek veterinary care: If you cannot remove the hair, if the eye is punctured, or if your dog continues to paw at the eye, seek immediate veterinary attention.
- Brush the fur: Gently brush the hair around the eyes to separate any tangled or matted fur.
- Comb the hair away: Use a comb to lift the hair that is growing toward or over the eye.
- Trim with care: With the hair lifted, use blunt-tipped safety scissors to carefully trim it. Always point the scissors away from the dog's face and eye.
- Consider professional help: For severe hair growth or if you are not comfortable trimming around the eyes, it is best to have your dog groomed by a professional or seen by a veterinarian.
Contact a veterinarian immediately if you notice:
- Persistent eye irritation, redness, or tearing
- Colored or smelly eye discharge
- Signs of a corneal scratch or ulcer
- The hair is deeply embedded in the eye