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My dog's eye is red with discharge. Can I treat it with OTC?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Female | spayed

Lola’s eye is a little red and has had some eye buggers. Just noticed it this morning. I’ve taken her to the vet in the past for allergies, is there something I can give her over the counter to help with this?

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on August 25th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While medications for allergies such as Benadryl may help, it would be best to ensure that she does not have any other reason to have eye discharge and eye redness. This could be due to an eye injury or conditions such as a corneal laceration, corneal ulcer, conjunctivitis, dry eye (also known as KCS), among many other conditions. I highly recommend that you have Lola evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. Further therapy would be based on the findings. Good luck and best wishes!

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    Answered By Megan, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 22nd, 2017

    Poor Baby! I would first start by trying benadryl and a cone collar to prevent her from rubbing it. See link below for benadryl dosing. Unfortunately, there aren't any great over the counter eye drops that will help to solve this. You can try artificial tears or even a eye lubricant like GenTeal eye ointment. You can find these at most human drug stores. If she isn't improving or ever starts to favor that eye, I would have your vet take a look at her. Your vet can make sure she doesn't have an ulcer on her eye and will be able to send her home with the proper eye drops to make her feel better. I hope this helps! https://www.petcoach.co/canigive/dog/benadryl

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