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My dog is squinting her eye. Should I take her to an emergency vet?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | spayed | 10 years and 7 months old | 13 lbs

My dog has been squinting his eye. This has happened before, then went away. We assumed it was allergies. She now has it again. She has been eating regularly, but does seem less active. She is older 10 1/2 , and it is hard to tell if something is wrong. I will take her in as soon as I can, but I am worried with the holiday weekend that I can't get her in right away. Should I take her to the animal hospital?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

Veterinarian

Published on May 28th, 2017

It looks like Holly may have an ulcer on the eye which is very painful, causing the squinting. Immediate treatment gives the best chance for a full recovery and yes i would take her today. They can also prescribe pain relief for her

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    Answered By Juliana, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Poor holly!! Anytime there is a potential eye injury it is best to have them evaluated by a veterinarian right away. There could be a corneal ulcer (scratch on the surface of the eye) and she would need an antibiotic ointment. A veterinarian will also be able to look for anything that could be irritating the eye (like foreign material or even eyelashes that could be growing inward irritating the eye) and evaluate the eye for any other underlying issues like a blocked tear duct or a dry eye. It is important to prevent holly from pawing at her eye in the meantime. so she may need an ecollar. I hope she is feeling much better soon!

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