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My dog's pink eye keeps coming back after vet drops. What to do?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Labrador Retriever | Male | unneutered | 8 months old | 55 lbs

My 8 month old Labrador had conjunctivitis over the Xmas period and I got drops from the vet. These have now finished last week but I can see it coming back. What should I do? I am bathing it with salt water at moment and trying not to let him scratch.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Shaneez Wallani, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on January 6th, 2018

Poor Alfie! You are right to try and keep him from scratching, as this can lead to painful scratches on the cornea. Use an e-collar (cone) on him to prevent him from scratching his eye. Please have Alfie seen by a vet if the conjunctivitis is recurring, and do not apply anything to the eye yourself, as adding anything else (even salt water, unless it is an ophthalmic saline solution appropriate for dogs) can irritate the eye further and lead to damage to the tissue. Best of luck! I hope he feels better soon!

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    Answered By Dr. Davis

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    I recommend using a cone if needed so Alfie doesn’t irritate it further. You are doing a good job keeping it rinsed out. I would bring him in for a recheck next week. In addition to getting more medication they should try to find the reason for the conjunctivitis so it won’t keep recurring. He could have some eyelashes that are irritating the cornea, or may have something caught in his eye. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach to help you care for Alfie.

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