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Dog eye infection, no vet money. Can I use over-the-counter meds?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Pug | Male | unneutered | 13 years and 1 month old | 25 lbs

My pug has some kind of bacterial infection the whole white eyeball is all bloodshot as you can see in this picture that I'm sending you. I need answers so I can know what too do, I have no money to afford the vet, the only thing I have right now is vetericyn + Plus it doesn't have any antibiotic, what kind of ointment can I use over the counter to treat his eyes because I do not want him to go blind. The feeding store carry terramycin is that good for eyes!?? what do yo think it is? Help pls

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1 Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on November 11th, 2017

Poor Scooters! Unfortunately there are no OTC medications you can use to treat his eye problem, and I would never recommend using something from the feeding store. The things available there are not strong enough to treat a dog's eye problems, nor are they truly safe. He has to see a vet asap, or he does run the risk of losing his sight if left untreated. I would see if you can borrow money from family and friends to afford the vet, and I can give you some resources. You can see if your vet accepts payment plans, if there is a low cost clinic in your area, or you can apply for Care Credit online. There is also an organization called Red Rover that give grants for treatment of sick animals, and you can see if you qualify for one of their grants. Best Friends also has a list of resources that offer financial assistance on their website. http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/resources/tips/trouble_affording_pet.html?credit=web_id91754962 https://www.redrover.org https://www.carecredit.com http://bestfriends.org/resources/financial-aid-pets http://lessonsfromaparalyzeddog.com/when-pet-owners-cant-afford-veterinary-bills/ God's Creatures Ministry helps pay for veterinarian bills for those who need help.
 The Onyx & Breezy Foundation has many programs including helping people with medical bills. They are a good resource for information.
 Brown Dog Foundation provides funding to families with a sick pet that would likely respond to treatment, but due to circumstances, there is not enough money immediately available to pay. IMOM is dedicated to insure that no companion animal has to be euthanized simply because their caretaker is financially challenged. I hope one of these resources helps you afford a vet, please take him into one right away.

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