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My dog has a red blister on his eye. What is it and what should I do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Male | neutered | 8 years and 6 months old | 15 lbs

My 8 yo Shi-tzu has what looks like a blood blister on his eye. It's reddish/brown in color. It doesn't appear to affect his sight. I noticed it after cleaning some eye much off his eyes. So they were draining more than usual. My vet is booked for the next 7 days so I can't get in to be seen soon. What can I do for him in the meantime and what is it?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Amy S. Eutsey, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 12th, 2017

This is a very abnormal looking eye and it appears that your dog has some serious issues with the cornea. The cornea is very cloudy and hazy and the pink lesion looks like a large ulcer on the cornea. This eye is likely chronically dry and lacking in tear production. This eye looks like it is in imminent danger of rupturing. I would recommend that you take your pet to the closest emergency clinic if you are unable to get help from a regular daytime vet right away. Your pet should be seen immediately and it is not a good idea to wait for 7 days. Your pet will likely need multiple prescription eye medications and possibly surgery in order to repair the defect. Please do not try to treat this without a proper diagnosis and proper medication.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on May 16th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Poor Beaudreax! He needs to go to the Vet right away. Put an E-collar on and be at your Vet when they open. The left eye looks to have a very deep ulcer but they will be able to tell more in person. Do not let him rub the eye. Good luck!

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